DPM Paudel, Chinese Vice Premier He discuss infra projects

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Sept. 26: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance of Nepal, Bishnu Prasad Paudel, has discussed the development of some of the key infrastructure projects in Nepal with the support of China with Chinese Vice Premier, He Lifeng. 

In a bilateral meeting between the two on Wednesday morning, they discussed various matters of bilateral relations as well, informed the Embassy of Nepal in Beijing of China in a statement. 

DPM Paudel discussed key infrastructure projects including the construction of Kerung-Kathmandu Railway: Tokha-Chhahare Tunnel; Kimathanka-Hile and Hilsa-Surkhet-Bhurigaon roads; Madan Bhandari University of Science and Technology; and Damak Industrial Park, among others. 

He also stressed the need to increase the number of direct international flights from various Chinese cities to Bhairahawa and Pokhara international airports. 

Expressing happiness over the excellent longstanding relations, DPM Paudel expressed the need to expedite the implementation of agreements for further deepening the bilateral cooperation between the two countries. 

In response, Vice Premier He underscored the importance of implementing the agreements to further strengthening the bilateral ties. He also expressed the desire to expedite the development projects including infrastructure, transport and connectivity, according to the statement. 

DPM Paudel was accompanied by Surendra Kumar Yadav, Charge d’affaires at the Embassy, Mahesh Bhattarai, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, and other officials of the Government of Nepal. Similarly, the Chinese side included Li Xiaopeng, Minister of Transport, Mu Peng, Vice Mayor of Beijing Municipal People's Government, Fei Dongbin, Director General of National Railway Administration, Song Zhiyong, Director General of Civil Aviation Administration of China, and other senior officials of the Government of China. 

Following the meeting, DPM Paudel, delivering a statement at the opening ceremony of the 'Global Sustainable Transport Forum', emphasized the importance of developing a sustainable and reliable transport system to boost connectivity, economic growth, and quality of life. 

"He stated that efficient transport infrastructure is a key determinant of competitiveness especially for a landlocked country like Nepal and the government has made significant progress in expanding road networks and increasing electric vehicle usage," read the statement. 

DPM Paudel also highlighted that collaboration with international partners, including China and private sector, is key to achieving an efficient, accessible and sustainable transport future. 

 He also stated that Nepal envisions to improve rural transport access; enhance road safety; and explore innovative solutions like pod way system while focusing on green energy transition. 

DPM Paudel is in Beijing leading the Nepali delegation to participate in the 'Global Sustainable Transport Forum' being held on 25-26 September. He had reached Beijing on Tuesday.