KATHMANDU, July 31

Prime Minister Sushil Koirala has said China is Nepal’s ideal neighbour, intimate friend and reliable development partner.

Sending his congratulatory messages to Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries, PM Koirala on Friday said: “Nepal and China remain ideal neighbours and have been working closely on issues of common interest at regional and international forums.”

“China is Nepal’s trustworthy neighbour, anintimate friend and a reliable development partner,” he added.President Ram BaranYadav and his Chinese counterpart also exchanged congratulatory messages on the occasion on Friday.

Diplomatic relations between Nepal and China was established on August 1, 1955. The two countries have been celebrating the diamond jubilee of diplomatic ties by organising a series of diplomatic events in each others’ territory this year.

PM Koirala also underlined that Nepal unequivocally remains committed to “One China Policy” and does not allow any hostile activities on its soil against its neighbours, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA).

Appreciating Chinese humanitarian support in the aftermath of Nepal’s earthquake and substantial financial aid to Nepal’s rebuilding, Koirala expressed hope that Nepal would benefit from China’s phenomenal progress and prosperity.

Referring to the recent political developments in Nepal, he said political parties were working in the spirit of national unity and reconciliation to conclude the peace process and have a constitution promulgated through the Constituent Assembly.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, in his message to Koirala, mentioned that China and Nepal have set a good example in building equal and friendly relations between small and large neighbours.

He further added that the Chinese side consistently supports the efforts of Nepali people in maintaining independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity and lauded Nepal’s adherence to one-China policy.

President Yadav, in his message to his Chinese counterpart, has also stated that Nepali people hold Chinese people in high esteem as true and trusted friend.

President Xi, in his message sent to President Yadav, stated that bilateral relations have steadily developed over the past sixty years and a cooperative partnership featuring ever-lasting friendship has been established.