EU ambassador Lorenzo calls on Minister Khadka

Kathmandu, March 11: European Union's ambassador to Nepal, Veronique Lorenzo, today paid a courtesy call on Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Dipak Khadka.     

During the meeting held at the Singha Durbar-based Minister's office, matters relating to EU assistance to Nepal in energy, water resources and irrigation sector were discussed. They also touched on other various issues.     

The EU has remained a reliable development partner of Nepal since the establishments of Nepal-EU diplomatic ties in 1974.     

On the occasion, Minister Khadka acknowledged the EU assistance to Nepal for the development of energy, water resources and tourism sector. He also highlighted the EU's cooperation in the development of clean energy, climate change response and the economic stability.     

Sharing about the Nepal's goal of producing 25,800 megawatts of electricity by 2035 AD with the EU ambassador, the Minister expected significant support from development partners towards that end. The Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Bill has been presented to the parliament, he apprised her.     

The ambassador said the EU is committed to further cooperating with Nepal's efforts for climate change response and the development of alternative energy. She also lauded Nepal's energy cooperation with its neighbours.     

According to her, the EU will ensure further loans and grants for Nepal's energy sector, highlighting the EU's interest in investing in Upper Arun and Dudhkoshi Reservoir-based Projects. The two exchanged dialogues for an inauguration of the Chilime-Trishuli Transmission Line developed with the EC investment, according to the Minister's Secretariat.(RSS)