Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Narayan Kaji Shrestha, has returned home after completing his official visit to China.
Minister Shrestha, who departed for China on September 11, returned on Monday and briefed about his visit at Tribhuvan International Airport.
Foreign Minister Shrestha announced that China has agreed to reopen 14 traditional trade checkpoints that were closed during the COVID-19 pandemic, marking a significant achievement of his 9-day visit to China.
He revealed that checkpoints at Rasuwagadhi, Tatopani, Yari, and Nechung are already operational, and China has agreed to swiftly reopen the remaining 14 traditional trade border checkpoints.
This move is expected to greatly benefit the daily lives and businesses of Nepalis residing near the China border.
Furthermore, Minister Shrestha highlighted that both countries are inclined towards establishing a Joint Commission at the Foreign Minister level to facilitate regular high-level discussions on various aspects of the friendly relations between Nepal and China.
Discussions during the visit also revolved around finalizing and implementing the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) implementation plan, with both sides expressing positivity.
Likewise, Minister Shrestha disclosed that China has responded favorably to Nepal’s request for visa-free entry for Nepali travelers and expressed a commitment to provide qualitative assistance to Nepal. There are plans to intensify cooperation through the effective implementation of agreements and regular meetings between the two nations.
China has shown a willingness to allow Nepalis in border areas to utilize pasture land in Tibet and electrify Nepali villages along the border. Both countries are also considering the resumption of direct bus services between Kathmandu and Lhasa.
Minister Shrestha also discussed facilitating the export of Nepali goods such as pork, hay, medicinal herbs, vegetables, and fruits to China, with China pledging necessary support. There are plans to establish a multi-use laboratory in some border areas and enhance productivity in Nepal’s agricultural sector with Chinese assistance.
Efforts to boost connectivity between Nepal and China through roadways, railways, air routes, and power transmission lines were also emphasized, along with discussions on industrialization and manpower development in Nepal.
During the visit, Minister Shrestha extended an invitation to Wang Yi, Politburo Member of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and Foreign Minister of China, to visit Nepal, which was positively received.
The visiting delegation included Nepal’s Ambassador to China Bishnu Pukar Shrestha, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Krishna Prasad Dhakal, Nepal’s Consul General in Lhasa Nawaraj Dhakal, and Nepal’s Consul General in Chengdu Suresh Raut.
