Japanese envoy calls on Minister Khadka

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Feb. 22: Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Maeda Toru paid a courtesy call on Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Dipak Khadka.

During the meeting held at the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation on Thursday, various issues related to the energy and irrigation sectors between the two countries were discussed.

Minister Khadka congratulated newly appointed Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Toru and wished him a successful tenure. 

He thanked Japan for its support in the areas of Kaligandaki 'A', Kulekhani Hydropower Project, Tanahun Hydropower Project and rural electrification, among others.

Similarly, he expressed gratitude for Japan's support in Nepal for the Chandranagar Irrigation System, and flood control in major rivers, including Koshi, Narayani and Bagmati, which are at high risk. 

He thanked Japan for its technical assistance in Nepal's energy sector as well.

Minister Khadka requested the government of Japan to invest in Nepal's hydropower sector, green hydrogen, smart energy technology and large irrigation projects. 

He requested the Japanese government to support the implementation of the energy development roadmap recently passed by the Council of Ministers.

During the meeting, Ambassador Toru expressed Japan's commitment to support the Upper Arun Hydropower Project, which is being constructed under the financial management of the World Bank. 

He said that the support will be provided considering the priority of Nepal's hydropower project development.