KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 6

Minister for Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Deepak Khadka stated that his recent visit to India has been fruitful for advancing Nepal's energy sector.

Returning home this evening after attending the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Conference in New Delhi, Minister Khadka shared at a press briefing at Tribhuvan International Airport that positive discussions were held with Indian authorities regarding the expedited progress of large-scale projects, including Pancheshwar and Arun.

'There is an agreement between Nepal and India to collaborate on fast-tracking the development of these projects,' Minister Khadka said, noting India's strong interest and commitment to Nepal's energy sector advancement.

The minister added that the Nepalese government has also engaged with key Indian business leaders and organizations to achieve its target of producing 28,500 megawatts of electricity by 2035. He further noted that during the ISA conference, the Alliance pledged its support for expanding Nepal's solar energy capabilities.

In his meetings with India's Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil, ISA President and Minister for New and Renewable Energy Prahlad Venkatesh Joshi, and Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Minister Khadka emphasized Nepal's need for greater investment and a conducive working environment to bolster hydropower development.

Minister Khadka added that Indian energy officials showed strong interest, with many companies eager to invest in Nepal's hydropower projects, contingent on a favorable business climate.

He also mentioned that India's energy minister expressed a commitment to visit Nepal in the near future.