China and Nepal have signed a total of 12 agreements, including seven Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), aimed at enhancing their bilateral cooperation across various sectors. This development coincides with the visit of Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal “Prachanda” to China, during which he met with high-level Chinese officials and discussed various aspects of their bilateral relations.
Comprehensive review of bilateral relations
Prime Minister Prachanda held extensive talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing. These discussions encompassed a comprehensive review of the bilateral relations between the two nations, with both sides expressing satisfaction over their close and cordial ties. The Nepal embassy in Beijing issued a press release highlighting the importance of the talks.
Strengthening mutual understanding and cooperation
During their meeting, the leaders exchanged views on ways to further strengthen and consolidate mutual understanding and cooperation. They emphasized the need to inject new vitality into economic collaboration, trade, and people-to-people contacts.
Prachanda’s stance on security alliances
Reports suggest that Prime Minister Prachanda was cautious about embracing China’s new security doctrines, including the Global Security Initiative (GSI) and Global Civilisation Initiative (GCI). In a recent interview, he underscored Nepal’s non-aligned foreign policy and its reluctance to become part of any security-related alliance.
China’s commitment to Nepal’s development
Premier Li assured Prime Minister Prachanda of China’s steadfast support for Nepal’s national independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. China expressed its commitment to assisting Nepal in developing infrastructure, including ports, roads, railways, aviation, telecommunications, and electricity. Both nations discussed the Trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network, aiming to enhance Nepal’s connectivity with neighboring countries.
Bilateral agreements
Following their discussions, China and Nepal signed 12 agreements covering various sectors. These agreements included MoUs related to cooperation in areas such as digital economy, green and low-carbon development, agriculture, livestock, and fisheries. Furthermore, they established a Joint Technical Working Group to review and modify the Nepal-China trade and payment agreement. Other agreements covered projects like the Hilsa-Simkot Road Project and the Nepal-China Power Grid Interconnection Project (Chilime-Kerung).
Effort to expand relations
Prime Minister Prachanda also met with National People’s Congress Chairman Zhao Leji, focusing on further strengthening the historical ties between Nepal and China and promoting high-level exchanges.
Prime Minister Prachanda’s visit to China followed his address at the 78th General Assembly of the United Nations in New York, reflecting Nepal’s commitment to engaging with key international partners to promote its development and diplomacy.
(With PTI Inputs)