Kathmandu, May 23 : Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Chen
Song, paid a courtesy call on Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supply,
Ramesh Rijal, on Monday.
During the meeting held at
ministry, they discussed bilateral relations, development assistance, and
opening of border points.
Minister Rijal praised Chinese
Ambassador Song, saying he had active role on strengthening bilateral relations
between Nepal and China. He believed that the bilateral relations would be
further strengthened in the days ahead.
The two-country relations are
special, Minister Rijal said, reiterating that Nepal was committed to not let
anyone misuse Nepali territory against China.
He informed that of the total
foreign trade, trade with China comprises 14 percent. China is Nepal's second
largest trade partner, according to Minister Rijal. However, Nepal was
incurring huge loss on trade with China.
Minister Rijal also reminded
various mechanisms to facilitate Nepal-China trade. Even the meeting of joint
consultation mechanism established for implementing transit and transport
agreement was not held, he said, urging Ambassador for immediate meeting
between the concerned mechanisms in Kathmandu and Beijing.
The Minister however expressed
happiness over the re-operation of Tatopani, Rasuwa and Hilsa border points. He
requested Chinese Ambassador to open further border points soon.
The Chinese Ambassador Song was
drawn attention on opening Nechung-Liji, Kimathanka, Olangchunggola and other
border points.
Rijal thanked China for its
assistance and collaboration in Nepal's development. He hoped China would
extend further assistance and provide foreign direct investment.
On the occasion, Ambassador Song
thanked Nepal for supporting One China policy. He believed bilateral relations
would be further strengthened between China and Nepal.
The Ambassador also said China was
positive to extend development assistance and foreign direct investment. (RSS)