KATHMANDU, FEBRUARY 17

UK's Ambassador to Nepal Nicola Pollitt today called on the Minister of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Pampha Bhusal. During the meeting held at the latter's office in Singha Durbar, they discussed issues of mutual interest and common concerns.

Minister Bhusal pledged that Nepal would work closely in all areas of mutual interests.

Stating that production and promotion of clean and renewable energy, e-mobility, lowcarbon infrastructure and eco-tourism were the priorities of Nepal, the minister thanked the UK Government for its support to Nepal in renewable energy and environment management endeavours.

Reminding about the role and contribution of Himalayas in balancing marine ecosystems and minimising the global temperature rise, Minister Bhusal said, 'We expect international support and cooperation in our efforts to protect the mountain range.'

As the minister apprised the UK representative, her office prioritised the promotion of reservoir-based projects to maintain balance in the energy sector.

'Hydropower, a clean and renewable source of energy, is the priority of the Nepal Government and its focus is on the production of mixed energy,' she mentioned.

Terming the UK as the most trusted development partner of Nepal, Minister Bhusal recalled its support to Nepal in times of crisis and disasters.

Similarly, ambassador Pollitt said the UK Government was interested in collaborating with Nepal in energy consumption.

She also pledged to further expand its cooperation with the related bodies.

The ambassador briefed Minister Bhusal that the UK Government was ready to facilitate Nepal in renewable energy production and power trade.

'It is supporting the institutional strengthening of bodies working in the energy sector here,' added the UK ambassador.

A version of this article appears in the print on February 18, 2022, of The Himalayan Times.