KATHMANDU, MARCH 27
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha has emphasized the significance of Chinese assistance in Nepal's journey towards economic prosperity.
DPM Shrestha, currently on an official visit to China, held a meeting with Secretary of CPC Chongqing Municipal Committee, Yuan Jiajun, where he expressed the view that Nepal and China could progress together in the journey of prosperity.
"China ranks at the top of the list of investors in Nepal. It is Nepal's second-largest trading partner, so China's role would be pivotal for Nepal's development across multiple sectors including tourism and energy," emphasized Shrestha.
He informed that Nepal would be hosting an investment summit, inviting Chinese investors to attend.
Furthermore, Shrestha underscored the longstanding friendship and intimate ties between Nepal and China, built on the principles of panchasheel. He reiterated Nepal's firm commitment to the One-China Policy.
Nepal is at the final stage of implementing the work plan on 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, affirming that friendly ties with China are of utmost priority.
During the meeting, Secretary Yuan highlighted the direct connectivity between Kathmandu and Chongqing with two weekly flights, which would further enhance networking between the two countries.
He assured that he would encourage Chinese investment in Nepal, expressing Chongqing's willingness to become Nepal's development partner. Cooperation could be expanded to include agriculture, education, technology, and infrastructure, he added.
Secretary Yuan shared that 17 students from Nepal are currently studying in Chongqing and mentioned plans to increase the number of scholarships in the future.
Furthermore, he expressed willingness to establish sisterly relations between Chongqing city of China and Bharatpur city of Nepal.
The discussion also touched upon strengthening relations between the Chinese Communist Party and CPN (Maoist Centre).
Chongqing, with a population exceeding 30 million inhabitants, is the largest city in China.
