Kathmandu, Sept. 25
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.
Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 26 September 2024.
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