Nepal-China relations strengthened: PM Oli

KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 5: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli stated that Nepal-China relations have been further strengthened following his recent official visit to China.

Speaking at a press conference held at Tribhuvan International Airport upon his return from the four-day visit, PM Oli emphasized the growing ties between the two nations, asserting that the strengthened relationship would significantly benefit Nepal.

"Several agreements were reached on projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) during my visit, which will bring maximum advantages to Nepal," he remarked. The Prime Minister also noted that specific discussions and agreements will follow for each project under the initiative.

During the visit, Nepal and China signed a cooperation framework agreement for the BRI in Beijing. The agreement was signed by Amrit Bahadur Rai, Secretary at Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Liu Sushe, Vice Chair of China's National Development and Reform Commission. The signing ceremony was attended by both PM Oli and his Chinese counterpart, Premier Li Qiang.

Among the agreements, key projects include the Tokha-Chhahare Tunnel construction, promotion of trade between the two countries, export of thermally processed buffalo meat from Nepal to China, and the formal handover of certificates for the completion of the Nine-Story Durbar Square building restoration by China.

Additionally, the agreements encompass economic and technological aid, as well as other development initiatives. Discussions also touched on expanding connectivity, industrial infrastructure development, agriculture, trade, tourism, investment, science and technology, sports, natural disaster management, people-to-people relations, and poverty alleviation.