Kathmandu, April 26. In a significant move to bolster bilateral relations, Nepal and China have inked two pivotal agreements aimed at fostering development and cooperation. The agreements were formalized amidst a ceremony at the Ministry of Finance, underscoring the commitment of both nations towards mutual progress.
Representatives from both sides, including Finance Minister Barshman Pun ‘Anant’, were present at the ceremony where the agreements were signed. Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Madhukumar Marasini, and Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Roshan Pokharel, along with Luo Zhaohui, head of China International Development Cooperation Agency, sealed the deals on behalf of their respective countries.
The first agreement focuses on human resource development support for global development efforts, underscoring Nepal’s commitment to enhancing its workforce capabilities in alignment with international standards. The second agreement, regarding bone marrow transplantation, holds immense significance for Nepal’s healthcare landscape.
As part of this pact, China has pledged support for initiating bone marrow transplant services in Nepal, particularly at the VP Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital. This support encompasses financial aid for infrastructure development as well as theoretical and technical training for medical practitioners.
Expressing gratitude for China’s unwavering support, Finance Minister Pun highlighted the deep-rooted friendship and cooperation between the two nations. He emphasized the importance of implementing bilateral agreements forged during high-level visits, citing President Xi Jinping’s historic visit to Nepal five years ago and Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda’s recent visit to China.
Minister Pun commended China’s remarkable strides in development, expressing a desire to emulate its progress in Nepal. He called for increased Chinese aid and investment in Nepal, citing China’s status as a leading foreign investment destination.
In response, Luo Zhaohui reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Nepal’s development agenda, pledging to honor the agreements made during past diplomatic exchanges. He underscored Nepal’s importance as a valued friend of China and reiterated China’s readiness to channel investments into Nepal, particularly in light of the ongoing Third International Investment Conference.
The signing of these agreements marks another milestone in the enduring partnership between Nepal and China, laying the groundwork for expanded collaboration and shared prosperity in the years ahead.
