Zambia to support mining industry in Nepal

KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 13 : Zambia's non-resident ambassador to Nepal, Percy Patson Chanda, has expressed his commitment to exchanging technical support in the mining and exploration of minerals in Nepal.

The Zambian envoy made this statement during a courtesy call on Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, Damodar Bhandari, today. In the meeting held at the Ministry, Ambassador Chanda noted that Nepal and Zambia share similar topographical features, and the Zambian government is ready to collaborate in the exploration and mining industries between the two countries.

On the occasion, Minister Bhandari highlighted that both countries are least developed and landlocked, facing similar challenges and development goals. He added that there is significant potential for both nations to share experiences, especially in trade, agriculture, tourism, and the mining industry.

"Nepal has prioritized mineral exploration, and there is potential for cooperation with Zambia in the mining industry, as Zambia is more advanced than Nepal in this sector," the minister said.

Minister Bhandari also remarked that Zambia could serve as an important base for Nepal to expand its relations within the African continent, given Zambia's geographical location. According to him, Zambia could also benefit socially, culturally, and geographically from Nepal's diverse geography, culture, and potential.

Ambassador Chanda shared that Zambia's mining industry has an annual turnover of at least Rs 600 billion and a highly skilled technical workforce.

"There is great potential in Nepal's mining and minerals industry as well. Cooperation between Zambia and Nepal should commence soon, with coordination between the concerned ministries of both countries," Ambassador Chanda said.

Director General of the Department of Mines and Geology, Ram Prasad Ghimire, briefed the Zambian ambassador on Nepal's mining and mineral potential, according to Ananda Bhatta, Minister Bhandari's private secretary.

Chief of the Bilateral Trade Division at the Ministry and spokesperson, Baburam Adhikari, and Chief of the Multi-sectoral Trade Division, Devraj Joshi, along with other ministry officials, were also present on the occasion.