On Wednesday, Bishnu Prasad Paudel, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance of Nepal, held a bilateral meeting with He Lifeng, Vice Premier of the People’s Republic of China. The discussions, held on the sidelines of the “Global Sustainable Transport Forum,” focused on enhancing infrastructure projects and boosting economic ties between the two nations.
During the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Paudel emphasized the longstanding friendly relations between Nepal and China. He expressed the need to accelerate the implementation of existing agreements to further strengthen bilateral cooperation.
The key projects discussed were the Kerung-Kathmandu Railway, Tokha-Chhahare Tunnel, and several road development initiatives, including the Kimathanka-Hile, Hilsa-Surkhet-Bhurigaon routes. Additional topics included the construction of the Madan Bhandari University of Science and Technology and the Damak Industrial Park.
Minister Paudel also highlighted the potential for expanding air connectivity, calling for an increase in direct international flights from various Chinese cities to Bhairahawa and Pokhara international airports, which he noted would significantly benefit Nepal’s tourism and trade sectors.
Vice Premier He Lifeng expressed China’s commitment to fast-tracking these development projects, focusing on infrastructure, transport, and connectivity, which are seen as pivotal in strengthening the partnership between the two nations.
The bilateral meeting was attended by senior officials from both countries, including Mr. Surendra Kumar Yadav, Charge d’affaires of Nepal; Mr. Mahesh Bhattarai, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Finance; H.E. Mr. Li Xiaopeng, Minister of Transport of China; and Mr. Fei Dongbin, Director General of the National Railway Administration, among others.
Following the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Paudel delivered a keynote address at the opening ceremony of the Global Sustainable Transport Forum, where he underscored Nepal’s efforts in developing a sustainable and reliable transport system.
“Efficient transport infrastructure is a key determinant of competitiveness, especially for a landlocked country like Nepal,” Mr. Paudel said, noting the country’s commitment to expanding its road networks and promoting electric vehicle usage.
The Deputy Prime Minister further stressed the importance of collaboration with international partners, including China, in achieving sustainable transport solutions. He outlined Nepal’s vision to improve rural transport access, enhance road safety, and explore innovative approaches such as podway systems while focusing on a transition to green energy.
