Chinese assistance counts for Nepal's prosperity: DPM Shrestha

By Ashok Ghimire, Chongqing (China), March 27: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha has said Chinese assistance would be significant for Nepal's journey towards economic prosperity.     

DPM Shrestha, who is currently on an official visit to China, held a meeting with Secretary of CPC Chongqing Municipal Committee, Yuan Jiajun, where he viewed that Nepal and China could move ahead together in journey of prosperity. "China is on top in the list of investors in Nepal. It is Nepal's second largest country for foreign trade, so China's role would count much for Nepal's development in multiple fronts including tourism and energy," Shrestha emphasized.     

He informed that Nepal was holding an investment summit, so Chinese investors could attend it.     

Moreover, Shrestha reminded that Nepal and China are age-old friends and have intimate ties. Relations between the countries are based on principles of panchasheel. Nepal is firm on One-China Policy, he reiterated.     

Nepal is at final stage of implementation work plan on BRI. It has been taken as an initiative for humanity, fraternity and partnership for development.     

He vowed that Nepal would not let any activity in its territory against China. The friendly ties with China are in first priority, Shrestha informed.     

On the occasion, Secretary Yuan said Kathmandu and Chongqing were connected directly with two flights in a week, which are helpful to foster further network between the two countries.     

He assured that he would encourage Chinese investment in Nepal. Chongqing is willing to be Nepal's development partners. Cooperation could be built on agriculture, education, technology and infrastructure, he added.     

According to him, 17 students were studying in Chongqing. Number of scholarship will be increased in the days ahead, Secretary Yuan shared.     

Moreover, the Secretary showed willingness to establish sisterly relations between Chongqing city of China and Bharatpur city of Nepal.     

Also discussed during the meeting was strengthening relations between Chinese Communist Party and CPN (Maoist Centre).     

Chongqing is the largest city in China in terms of population, with more than 30 million inhabitants. (RSS)