Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha has emphasized the significance of Chinese assistance in Nepal’s journey toward economic prosperity.
During his ongoing official visit to China, Shrestha met with the Secretary of CPC Chongqing Municipal Committee, Yuan Jiajun, and expressed the view that Nepal and China could progress together in this endeavor.
Shrestha highlighted that China ranks at the top of the list of investors in Nepal and is Nepal’s second-largest trading partner. Consequently, China’s role is pivotal for Nepal’s development across multiple sectors, including tourism and energy. He also informed that Nepal is hosting an investment summit, inviting Chinese investors to participate.
The longstanding friendship and intimate ties between Nepal and China are based on the principles of panchasheel, and Nepal remains firm in its commitment to the One-China Policy. Additionally, Nepal is in the final stages of implementing the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), considering it an initiative for humanity, fraternity, and partnership for development.
Shrestha pledged that Nepal would not allow any activities on its territory against China, emphasizing that friendly ties with China are of utmost priority. Secretary Yuan highlighted the direct connectivity between Kathmandu and Chongqing, with two weekly flights, which will further enhance networking between the two countries.
Secretary Yuan assured that he would encourage Chinese investment in Nepal, expressing Chongqing’s willingness to become Nepal’s development partner. Cooperation could extend to areas such as agriculture, education, technology, and infrastructure.
Currently, 17 Nepali students are studying in Chongqing, and the number of scholarships is expected to increase in the future. Furthermore, Secretary Yuan expressed a willingness to establish sisterly relations between Chongqing city in China and Bharatpur city in Nepal.
