Speaker Aryal reaffirms one China policy

By A Staff Report,Kathmandu, Apr. 29: Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Zhang Maoming, paid a courtesy call on the Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal, in Kathmandu, with discussions focusing on Nepal-China relations, parliamentary cooperation and regional and global issues.

During the meeting, Speaker Aryal described Nepal-China ties as historic and friendly, rooted in the principles of Panchasheel. He stressed the importance of further strengthening bilateral relations and reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to the One China Policy, stating that Nepal’s territory would not be used against China.

The Speaker said the present government is prioritising development, good governance, anti-corruption efforts, and the promotion of new technologies. He expressed hope for continued support and cooperation from China, noting that the government’s 100-point action plan is already under implementation. He also acknowledged China’s goodwill during Nepal’s political transition.

Aryal highlighted the importance of enhancing inter-parliamentary relations through both Houses of the Federal Parliament, committees, and friendship groups. He said Nepal aims to build an effective legislature and strengthen engagement with China’s National People’s Congress, including by implementing agreements reached in December 2022.

He also called for faster implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative, highlighting trade, investment, infrastructure development, border management, and connectivity. In addition, he reiterated Nepal’s commitment to multilateral cooperation, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people ties. The Speaker further underlined the need to enact laws in line with the constitution, improve the investment climate, and encourage private sector confidence, expressing optimism about the role of youth leadership in national development. He also raised concerns over increasing global conflicts, advocating dialogue and peace.

Ambassador Maoming described the meeting as a valuable opportunity and conveyed a message of goodwill and congratulations from China’s National People’s Congress. He said bilateral relations are based on good neighbourliness, mutual respect, and coexistence, and noted that ties have strengthened in recent years.

The Chinese ambassador reaffirmed China’s support for Nepal’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, and commended Nepal’s adherence to the One China Policy. 

He welcomed the government’s focus on reform, stability, and economic development, expressing confidence in the country’s young leadership.

He also highlighted the importance of expanding high-level exchanges and cooperation between the two legislatures. Highlighting ongoing collaboration, he noted progress in infrastructure, connectivity and development projects. He also extended invitations to Nepali parliamentary representatives to visit China.

Both sides agreed to deepen cooperation across parliamentary, economic, and technical sectors, while enhancing coordination in regional and international forums to promote peace, stability, and shared prosperity.