In a significant diplomatic development, China and Nepal have inked a dozen agreements, including seven Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), aimed at bolstering bilateral collaboration across diverse sectors. This collaborative effort follows extensive discussions between Premier Li Qiang and Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, widely known as “Prachanda.” The talks took place in Beijing, where the leaders engaged in a comprehensive review of their nations’ bilateral relations, expressing contentment over the close and amicable ties that bind them.
The discussions extended to exploring avenues for the reinforcement of mutual understanding and collaboration, particularly in the realms of economics, trade, and people-to-people exchanges. These dialogues transpired subsequent to Chinese President Xi Jinping’s recent conversations with Prachanda in Hangzhou during the ongoing Asian Games in the eastern Chinese city.
It is noteworthy that Prachanda, who assumed the role of Prime Minister in December the previous year, chose to visit China after having visited India and the United States.
Following the official talks, both nations committed to a series of agreements that encompass an array of vital sectors. These include an MoU for Cooperation between The National Planning Commission of Nepal and China’s National Development and Reform Commission. Additionally, there is an MoU focused on advancing digital economy cooperation, another targeting green and low-carbon development collaboration, and an MoU pertaining to cooperation in agriculture, livestock, and fisheries.
Moreover, a Memorandum of Understanding has been signed to establish a Joint Technical Working Group tasked with reviewing and amending the Nepal-China trade and payment agreement. Furthermore, a protocol on phytosanitary requirements for the export of plant-derived medicinal materials for Chinese medicine from Nepal to China has also been formalized.
Significant infrastructure initiatives are also part of the agreements, including MoUs on the Hilsa-Simkot Road Project and the Nepal-China Power Grid Interconnection Project (Chilime-Kerung). Additionally, cooperation has been extended into the fields of science, technology, and innovation, along with human resources development.
During his visit, Prachanda had the opportunity to meet with National People’s Congress Chairman Zhao Leji. Their discussions were centered around expanding the longstanding ties between Nepal and China, with a specific emphasis on promoting high-level exchanges.
Prime Minister Prachanda, after his meeting with President Xi Jinping, conveyed his optimism for the future. He stated, “Had a fruitful meeting with Xi Jinping, President of PR China. We exchanged views on a range of issues of bilateral relations and cooperation in our mutual interests. We agreed to collaborate closely and advance Nepal-China relations to strengthen ever-lasting friendship.”
This visit comes following Prachanda’s address to the 78th General Assembly of the United Nations in New York.
By PTI
