Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda, Prime Minister of Nepal, who is also the leader of the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre), visited China from September 23-30, with his first engagement being to attend the opening of the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou and to meet there with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Prachanda has visited China many times, but this was the first visit of his current third term as Prime Minister.
During his visit, Prachanda gave an exclusive interview to the Chinese newspaper, Global Times.
In its preamble, the newspaper described the Nepalese leader as having witnessed abject poverty in his youth and therefore, becoming “determined to change his country’s corruption and a ruling exploitative class, Prachanda embarked on a revolutionary path to transform Nepal’s destiny.” It added: “As a staunch socialist and a long-time member of the Communist Party, Prachanda has deep ties to China.”
The interview features a detailed overview of the economic situation in Nepal and the current stage and prospects of the country’s relations with China in the economic and social fields. Prachanda tells his interviewers that:
“Nepal urgently requires to create more jobs in order to address the unemployment problem, enhance productivity, expand the output of exportable goods and services, explore new markets for export, control inflation, and maintain trade balance. These objectives stand as my foremost priorities.”
He then adds: “China has ascended to become the world’s second-largest economy, showcasing remarkable achievements in the socio-economic transformation of its society. Notably, China serves as a significant pillar of economic support for Nepal. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China in 1955, China has played an important role in assisting Nepal’s infrastructure and development endeavours. Many of these projects hold immense importance for our nation’s progress. As China continues to advance, its support and investment in Nepal are continuously growing. Nepal views China’s development trajectory as an opportunity, with the BRI [Belt and Road Initiative] serving as a suitable platform for enhancing trans-Himalayan multidimensional connectivity.”
One key element of the two countries’ cooperation, which holds the potential to be transformatory for the Nepalese economy, is a planned railway link. On this, Prachanda notes:
“The primary concern associated with this project is how quickly we can bring it to fruition. You must be aware that the construction of this project requires a substantial amount of resources that Nepal alone cannot afford. In such a situation, we have no choice but to rely on external funding. However, we also share concerns that the size of the loan for this project and terms and conditions should be manageable for the Nepali economy.”
Asked whether he believes that socialism is still relevant in Nepal, the veteran communist leader replies:
“Nepal’s constitution defines Nepal as a socialism-oriented state. In my view, socialism and Chairman Mao’s ideas and teachings remain relevant to transform Nepal into a socialist country.
“Under the socialism and the leadership of Mao, the Communist Party of China (CPC) established the People’s Republic of China. The CPC developed its unique path to socialism with Chinese characteristics.
“Similarly, Nepal will determine its own path as a socialism-oriented country that suits its historical political development and current geopolitical realities. It’s not about Nepal imitating China’s socialism and Chairman Mao Zedong. China’s socialism and Mao’s ideas offer us valuable insights to improve the socio-economic status of the oppressed and economically disadvantaged class of people.”
He is also asked whether he believes he has realised the dreams and goals he had when he first fought in the revolution, drawing this reply:
“I should say our dreams have been partially realised. Politically, the country has overthrown a centuries-old monarchy and has been transformed into a republic. This would not have been possible without our ‘People’s War.’ Now, in the eyes of the constitution and laws, all citizens are equal. The country has adopted inclusive policies protecting the basic rights of people from all walks of life. From the highest level such as parliament and other constitutional bodies to the lowest level of political representations such as ward committees, from government institutions to cooperatives, from recruitments in government jobs to student admissions in colleges, certain reservations have been ensured for people from marginalised groups like women, the economically poor, and the underprivileged classes. This remarkable achievement was institutionalised through the constitution promulgated in 2015.
“Despite achievements made in several areas, I must admit that much remains to be done in the economic sector. Economic, technical, and educational advancements take a longer time to show visible results. To achieve progress in these sectors, we need consistent, long-term efforts, and most importantly national consensus.”
We reprint below the full text of Comrade Prachanda’s interview.
We also reprint the full text of the joint statement between China and Nepal, which was released following Prachanda’s talks with his Chinese counterpart, Premier Li Qiang, in Beijing on September 26.
The statement notes that both countries agreed that, “since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1955, China and Nepal have withstood changes of the international situation, always upheld mutual respect, equality, solidarity, mutual assistance and win-win cooperation, setting a fine example of friendly interaction between countries with different social systems and of different sizes… China firmly supports Nepal in upholding its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and respects and supports Nepal’s independent choice of social system and development path that suits its national conditions.”
The statement reviews in detail all areas of bilateral cooperation and addresses ways to advance them in a smoother and more expeditious manner. It adds:
“The two sides commended their mutual support in fighting COVID-19 together. The two sides expressed satisfaction over the completion and handover of the China-aided project of upgrading and renovating the Civil Service Hospital in Nepal and are ready to further strengthen health and medical cooperation, including expediting the installation of a Bone Marrow Transplant Service at the B.P. Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital in Nepal.”
China and Nepal also stressed “the importance to uphold true multilateralism, promote greater democracy in international relations, and make global governance more just and equitable. The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation within the framework of the United Nations and other multilateral mechanisms to uphold the common interest of developing countries. The two sides support the multilateral trading system and oppose protectionism. They will work together to make economic globalisation more open, inclusive, balanced and beneficial for all, promote global and regional peace, security, development and prosperity, and build a community with a shared future for humanity.”
The following articles were originally published by Global Times and the Xinhua News Agency.
Nepal to maintain non-aligned policy in friendly relations with neighbors, hopes China’s strengths will help bolster economy: Nepalese PM
At the invitation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda commenced his five-day state visit to China from September 23 to 30, his first visit to China since the start of his third term as the Prime Minister of Nepal. The 69-year-old is a legendary figure in Nepal. Born in a poor Brahmin farming family in Pokhara in 1954, he witnessed abject poverty in his youth. Determined to change his country’s corruption and a ruling exploitative class, Prachanda embarked on a revolutionary path to transform Nepal’s destiny. In 2008, he became the first prime minister of Nepal after the abolition of the monarchy. In 2016, he assumed the office of prime minister for a second term, and in November 2022, this veteran of Nepalese politics made a comeback for a third term. As a staunch socialist and a long-time member of the Communist Party, Prachanda has deep ties to China. After assuming office as the first term as prime minister of Nepal, the first country he visited was China. In 2008, he also came to Beijing to attend the opening ceremony of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.
Global Times reporters Hu Yuwei and Bai Yunyi (GT) recently interviewed Prachanda while on his official visit to China. He told the reporters that part of his dream when he first embarked on the revolutionary path has been realized. During this third term, he hopes to promote long-term unity, stability, and economic prosperity in Nepal, and for this, he will seek to strengthen cooperation with China within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). He believes that China’s experience in development has provided valuable insights for his government in improving the socio-economic conditions of vulnerable groups within Nepal.
GT: This is your third term as the Prime Minister of Nepal. Your premiership has great expectations attached to it. Can you please elaborate on the key priorities your administration has to lead Nepal into a new era of prosperity?
Prachanda: I am committed to the task of guiding the country toward the path of prosperity. Our foremost concerns are peace and prosperity. The current government has been focused on accelerating the truth and reconciliation process. Our objective is to achieve both domestic and international peace, and we are committed to expediting the peace-building initiatives through which we can successfully lead the country out of the transitional phase. Ensuring comprehensive peace, effective governance, upholding the rule of law, fostering national unity, and achieving political consensus are necessary for long-term stability of the nation and fostering a robust economic environment.
GT: Will relations with China become one of your administration’s diplomatic priorities? What are your expectations for China-Nepal relations during your tenure?
Prachanda: China-Nepal relations consistently serve as a remarkable example of good neighbourliness. China occupies an important place in Nepal’s diplomatic priorities. Nepal-China relations are based on millennia-old cultural, economic, and people-to-people ties, and are guided by the principles of peaceful coexistence, harmony, goodwill, and mutual trust. Nepal has unwavering support for the one-China principle, which is committed to not allowing any kind of anti-China activities on our soil. We also highly value China’s unconditional support for Nepal’s socio-economic development and territorial integrity, which have been the hallmarks of our cordial and neighbourly relations.
I am confident and optimistic that China-Nepal relations will be further consolidated, which will reach a new height during my tenure. We have accorded priority to develop cross-border connectivity networks, including roads, railways, transmission lines, airways, and telecommunications. Our top priorities include establishing cross-border economic zones, expanding trade and investment-related infrastructures at border points, and early implementation of previously agreed bilateral agreements and understandings.
We are fully committed to accelerating the construction of cross-border railways and electricity transmission lines as early as possible. Nepal attaches greater importance to all cross-border connectivity projects; we anticipate a similar commitment from the Chinese side as well.
Enhanced air connectivity between China and Nepal is another important sector that would strengthen China-Nepal relations and cooperation. If we operate flights from Lumbini and Pokhara airports to different Chinese cities and the vice versa, it would significantly help in revitalizing Nepal’s tourism sector and creating job opportunities in Nepal.
Enhanced air connectivity between China and Nepal is another important sector that would strengthen China-Nepal relations and cooperation. If we operate flights from Lumbini and Pokhara airports to different Chinese cities and the vice versa, it would significantly help in revitalizing Nepal’s tourism sector and creating job opportunities in Nepal.
Nepal has a huge trade imbalance with China. Nepal possesses immense potential in organic staple foods, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, while China possesses significant technological, production, and marketing prowess. We hope that China will assist Nepal in supplying advanced agricultural and food processing technology with fresh investment to Nepal, which would enhance our agricultural exports and reduce the trade deficit. We are optimistic that China will open its huge market to Nepali agro-vet products, medicinal and aromatic plant-based goods, cosmetics, and handicrafts. We also seek Chinese investments in the development of hydrogen energy which would benefit both of our countries in producing clean energy and reduce carbon emissions.
We are keen to explore greater business opportunities for Nepali art forms, such as thangka paintings, carpets, and other woollen products in the Chinese market.
Chinese support for the development of technical and vocational education is immensely important. China and Nepal have enjoyed friendly people-to-people relations and cultural cooperation for centuries. Mutual trust and cooperation have been the fundamental pillars of China-Nepal relations, which will continue in the future as well.
China and Nepal must make common efforts to address the issues related to the impact of climate change in the Himalayan region and enhance all-round trans-border cooperation to address the issues that have impacted both countries. Nepali government is eager to collaborate with China to promote regional peace, prosperity, and development.
GT: When you first took office as the prime minister of Nepal, the first country you visited was China. Now on your third term in office, what agenda will your current visit to China entail?
Prachanda: I have consistently prioritized fostering friendly relations and cooperation with China. Our two countries are actively collaborating on various issues and extending cooperation through diplomatic channels.
Our key priorities with China include early and time-bound implementation of previously agreed upon agendas and understandings. At the same time, we want to further boost economic cooperation. Our particular emphasis is to attract more Chinese direct investments in Nepal, promote trans-Himalayan connectivity networks, increase Nepali exports to China, and address Nepal’s trade deficit.
GT: The current economic situation in Nepal is challenging with inflation at a near six-year high. Foreign exchange reserves continue to drain away, and basic commodities are becoming increasingly dependent on imports. What are your next steps for economic revitalization? Will it involve the strengthening of economic cooperation with China through such initiatives as BRI projects?
Prachanda: Nepal urgently requires to create more jobs in order to address the unemployment problem, enhance productivity, expand the output of exportable goods and services, explore new markets for export, control inflation, and maintain trade balance. These objectives stand as my foremost priorities. For this, we are collaborating with planners, economists, industrialists, business leaders, and various stakeholders to identify suitable solutions to these challenges.
Emphasis has been placed on prioritizing policies and initiatives that foster a favorable investment climate, thereby drawing increased foreign investment to sectors that lack adequate domestic capital and technology. This approach is aimed at generating an environment conducive to growth and development.
China has ascended to become the world’s second-largest economy, showcasing remarkable achievements in the socio-economic transformation of its society. Notably, China serves as a significant pillar of economic support for Nepal. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China in 1955, China has played an important role in assisting Nepal’s infrastructure and development endeavors. Many of these projects hold immense importance for our nation’s progress.
As China continues to advance, its support and investment in Nepal are continuously growing. Nepal views China’s development trajectory as an opportunity, with the BRI serving as a suitable platform for enhancing trans-Himalayan multidimensional connectivity. This connectivity has great potential for realizing Nepal’s economic goals while acting as a vibrant bridge between the two largest economies in Asia and also between China and South Asia. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been signed between China and Nepal, solidifying mutual commitment to the BRI. We are fully prepared to take the maximum benefits from this cooperative framework.
The present government attaches paramount importance to investments from China. We are equally prepared to engage in discussions and resolve any obstacles that Chinese investors might encounter.
GT: We are closely following the developments of the China-Nepal railway project. Do you have the will to push this project forward during your tenure?
Prachanda: The Nepali people have high expectations for the China-Nepal railway, and they are eager for the railway project to commence as soon as possible. Once completed, the railway will provide Nepal with an alternative means of bulk transportation and will hold immense significance for Nepal’s trade diversification efforts and transit options.
The primary concern associated with this project is how quickly we can bring it to fruition. You must be aware that the construction of this project requires a substantial amount of resources that Nepal alone cannot afford. In such a situation, we have no choice but to rely on external funding. However, we also share concerns that the size of the loan for this project and terms and conditions should be manageable for the Nepali economy. Feasibility studies are currently underway, and we hope that the report will be available soon. Following that, we will need to explore appropriate funding modalities for the project. Under my leadership, this government is prioritizing the early completion of the study, and I hope to initiate the construction of this visionary project during my tenure.
The China-Nepal railway is a monumental project, and the people of Nepal are eager to see it realized. It is not critical for this project to commence during my term; what truly matters is that we have a collective dream of connecting Nepal and China through a railway system.
GT: Many people are concerned about how Nepal will handle its relations with China and India in the future. How will you guide Nepal’s relations with these two neighbors?
Prachanda: Nepal’s relations with both China and India are guided by principles of good neighborliness, peaceful coexistence, and a non-aligned foreign policy. Nepal deals with China and India independently. Our relationship with one neighbor will not be influenced by our relationship with the other, nor will we seek to play one against the other. Both neighbors are close friends and important development partners. We will continue to develop our relationships with both the neighbors on a bilateral basis. If any differences arise with either of them, such issues will be resolved through friendly bilateral negotiations.
Our relations with both our two immediate neighbors are consistent and clear. We want friendly relations with them and at the same time we want to see friendly and cooperative relations between our two neighbors as well. Their amicable and cooperative relations will also help Nepal. Personally, I am committed to promoting and am willing to assist in fostering close and harmonious neighborly relations between both our two important neighbors.
Nepal respects the interests of both China and India. We emphasize the development of a win-win cooperative model that benefits all three countries.
GT: As we all know, you are a socialist. Do you believe that socialism is still relevant in Nepal in the third decade of the 21st century? If so, why?
Prachanda: Nepal’s Constitution defines Nepal as a socialism-oriented state. In my view, socialism and Chairman Mao’s ideas and teachings remain relevant to transform Nepal into a socialist country.
Under the socialism and the leadership of Mao, the Communist Party of China (CPC) established the People’s Republic of China. The CPC developed its unique path to socialism with Chinese characteristics.
Similarly, Nepal will determine its own path as a socialism-oriented country that suits its historical political development and current geopolitical realities. It’s not about Nepal imitating China’s socialism and Chairman Mao Zedong. China’s socialism and Mao’s ideas offer us valuable insights to improve the socio-economic status of the oppressed and economically disadvantaged class of people.
GT: You are a veteran politician who has been active in Nepali politics for decades. Now looking back, do you believe you have realized your dreams and goals when you first fought in the revolution?
Prachanda: I should say our dreams have been partially realized. Politically, the country has overthrown a centuries-old monarchy and has been transformed into a republic. This would not have been possible without our “People’s War.” Now, in the eyes of the constitution and laws, all citizens are equal. The country has adopted inclusive policies protecting the basic rights of people from all walks of life. From the highest level such as parliament and other constitutional bodies to the lowest level of political representations such as ward committees, from government institutions to cooperatives, from recruitments in government jobs to student admissions in colleges, certain reservations have been ensured for people from marginalized groups like women, the economically poor, and the underprivileged classes. This remarkable achievement was institutionalized through the constitution promulgated in 2015.
Despite achievements made in several areas, I must admit that much remains to be done in the economic sector. Economic, technical, and educational advancements take a longer time to show visible results. To achieve progress in these sectors, we need consistent, long-term efforts, and most importantly national consensus. We are trying to develop our strategy and policy to achieve long-term development goals in close consultation and collaboration with all Nepali stakeholders, including the opposition parties and even others who have disagreement with the present political system.
Full text: Joint Statement between the People’s Republic of China and Nepal
BEIJING, Sept. 26 (Xinhua) — The People’s Republic of China and Nepal on Tuesday issued a joint statement.
The following is the full text of the statement:
Joint Statement between the People’s Republic of China and Nepal
Beijing, September 26, 2023
1. At the Invitation of H.E. Li Qiang, Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, Rt. Honorable Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda, Prime Minister of Nepal, is on an official visit to China from September 23 to 30, 2023 and attended the Opening Ceremony of the 19th Asian Games.
2. During the visit, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda met with President Xi Jinping, held talks with Premier Li Qiang, and met with Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress Zhao Leji. In a warm and cordial atmosphere, leaders of the two countries had in-depth exchange of views and reached extensive consensus on deepening China-Nepal traditional friendship, expanding mutually beneficial cooperation. They also shared views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.
3. The Nepali side extended its congratulations on the success of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), and the important outcomes of the annual sessions of China’s National People’s Congress and National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. The Nepali side commended China’s achievements in its economic and social development in recent years under the able leadership of President Xi Jinping, and wished the Chinese people greater development and progress. The Chinese side congratulated Nepal on its successful local, provincial and national elections and the formation of the new government, and wished the Nepali people enjoy development and prosperity at an early date.
4. The two sides recalled President Xi Jinping’s historic state visit to Nepal in 2019, during which the bilateral relationship was elevated to a Strategic Partnership of Cooperation Featuring Ever-lasting Friendship for Development and Prosperity, underlining the special significance of high-level exchanges to the development of bilateral relations. The two sides will maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, deepen political mutual trust, and expand exchanges and cooperation at all levels between the two countries.
5. The two sides agreed that since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1955, China and Nepal had withstood changes of the international situation, always upheld mutual respect, equality, solidarity, mutual assistance and win-win cooperation, setting a fine example of friendly interaction between countries with different social systems and of different sizes. The two sides agreed to further accelerate the implementation of the instruments signed and the important consensus reached between the leaders of the two countries, and, on the basis of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and the principle of good neighborliness and friendship, strengthen strategic communication, pursue high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and deepen and expand mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields.
6. Acknowledging the history of mutual support in difficult times, the two sides reiterated their commitment to respecting and accommodating each other’s concerns and core interests.
The Nepali side reiterated its firm commitment to the one-China principle. Recognizing that the Government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal Government representing the whole of China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory, the Nepali side is against “Taiwan independence.”
The Nepali side reiterated that Tibet affairs are China’s internal affairs, that it will never allow any separatist activities against China on Nepal’s soil.
The Chinese side reaffirmed its commitment to the principle of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness and the policy of forging friendship and partnership in the neighborhood. China firmly supports Nepal in upholding its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and respects and supports Nepal’s independent choice of social system and development path that suits its national conditions.
7. The two sides, while acknowledging the signing of the MoU between the Government of Nepal and the Government of the People’s Republic of China on bilateral cooperation under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative on 12 May 2017, expressed their commitment to accelerate the consultations to finalize the text on the BRI Implementation Plan at an early date. They expressed readiness to exchange experiences on their development strategies, deepen practical cooperation in such fields as infrastructure connectivity, trade, tourism, production capacity and investment, and further deepen and solidify Belt and Road cooperation to deliver greater benefits to their peoples. The two sides agreed to strengthen connectivity in such areas as ports, roads, railways, airways and grids in an orderly manner, jointly build the Trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network, work together to ensure the safety of the cooperation projects and company personnel of the two countries, and contribute to Nepal’s realization of its development agenda including graduating from the least developed country status at an early date.
The two sides welcomed the successful opening of the Lizi-Nechung port and the reopening of the Zhangmu-Khasa port to passenger services. The two sides applaud the smooth and orderly operation of passenger and cargo services at Pulan and Jilong ports. The Chinese side will extend its support to improve the facilities on the Nepali side of the Lizi-Nechung port at the earliest possible time. The Chinese side agreed to work for the early reopening of eligible traditional China-Nepal border trade points. The two sides agreed to maintain communication for the opening of Chentang-Kimathanka, Riwu-Olangchungola ports at an early date.
The two sides agreed to continue to implement the signed cooperation documents concerning transit transport and utilization of highways in China to help turn Nepal from a land-locked country to a land-linked country. In light of Nepal’s needs, the Chinese side is ready to start the fourth phase of the Araniko Highway maintenance project. The Chinese side is ready to start repairing the Syaphrubesi-Rasuwagadhi Highway as soon as possible after the Nepali side completes its demolition work.
Both sides agreed to accelerate the feasibility study of the Tokha-Chhare Tunnel project, recognizing that the project will elevate the level of connectivity between the two countries. The two sides agreed to expedite the implementation of the second phase of the Kathmandu Ring Road project.
The two sides expressed satisfaction over the progress of the feasibility study of the Jilong/Keyrung-Kathmandu Cross-Border Railway, and planned to hold the 8th Working Meeting on China-Nepal Railway Cooperation as early as possible. The Chinese side is ready to help Nepal train railway professionals.
The two sides welcomed the consensus reached between the civil aviation authorities of the two countries on expanding the air rights arrangements, and expressed satisfaction over the completion and operation of the Pokhara International Airport. The two sides support and encourage their airlines to resume and open more flights and air routes, including ones connecting Pokhara, in accordance with bilateral air rights arrangements and in light of market needs, so as to facilitate trade and economic interactions and people-to-people exchanges.
The two sides will further promote cooperation in the field of energy, particularly the development of hydropower and cross-border transmission lines and associated substations. The two sides will continue working toward the finalization of China-Nepal Electric Power Cooperation Plan by convening the second meeting of the Joint Implementation Mechanism at the earliest. The two sides will launch the construction of the Jilong/Keyrung-Rasuwagadhi-Chilime 220 KV Cross-Border Power Transmission line at an early date. The two sides will continue to make good use of the platform of the China-Nepal Joint Implementation Mechanism. The Mechanism will carry out exchanges and cooperation in the field of hydropower, wind power, solar power, biomass power and hydrogen.
The Chinese side agreed to positively consider the request made by the Nepali side for supplying grid power to electrify northern remote villages of Nepal from Xizang Autonomous Region of China, and take overall consideration of providing equipments or technology on commercial terms.
8. The two sides expressed satisfaction over bilateral cooperation in all areas, and agreed to further deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in such fields as economy and trade, investment, agriculture, tourism, production capacity, poverty alleviation, health and education to promote common development.
The two sides expressed satisfaction over the Second Working Group Meeting on Trade Facilitation recently held in China, which they view as conducive to facilitating bilateral economic and trade exchanges. In order to promote trade and investment between the two countries, both sides pledged to provide a fair, transparent and non-discriminatory business environment for each other’s business community operating in either side.
The two sides welcomed the arrival of the first batch of transit cargo on 7 September 2023 from the third country to Nepal by utilizing Chinese transit facilities under the Transit Protocol signed between Nepal and China.
In terms of the Project Development Agreement of China-Nepal Friendship Industrial Park, Investment Board of Nepal and Lhasa Economic and Technological Development Zone Investment Development Company have both unanimously agreed to accelerate the negotiation process and complete the signing of the PDA as soon as possible so as to commence construction and operations at an early date.
The two sides signed MoU to establish a joint technical working group to review and modify the Trade and Payment Agreement.
The two sides agreed that Nepal’s participation as a theme country in the 7th China-South Asia Expo in August 2023 injected fresh vigor and vitality into their bilateral economic and trade cooperation. The Chinese side welcomed Nepal’s participation in the 6th China International Import Expo to be held in Shanghai in November 2023.
The two sides welcomed the renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries between the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of the People’s Republic of China and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development of Nepal, and believed that the MoU would elevate the level of agricultural cooperation between the two countries, and agreed to hold the 4th Joint Commission Meeting on Nepal-China Agricultural Cooperation as early as possible. The two sides are ready to explore the joint development of an Agriculture Industrial Demonstration Park to further promote cooperation on agriculture. The Nepali side will actively work on the location and cooperation proposal of the Demonstration Park.
The Nepali side expressed its appreciation to the Chinese side for granting zero-tariff treatment to 98 percent of taxable products from Nepal. The Chinese side is ready to continue taking active measures to facilitate the export of Nepali products to China. The two sides welcomed the successful export of Nepali haylage to China and the signing of the Protocol of Phytosanitary Requirements for Export of Plant-derived Medicinal Materials for the Chinese Medicine from Nepal to China between the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development of the Government of Nepal and the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China, and expressed readiness to speed up the approval process for the export of cooked buffalo meat products from Nepal to China, which the two sides view as a positive step forward to reducing trade imbalances between the two countries. The Chinese side is ready to assist the Nepali side in meeting the phytosanitary requirements for the export of Nepali citrus fruits to China and in establishing a multifunctional quarantine laboratory in Nepal.
The Chinese side has agreed to carry out exchanges and cooperation with the Nepali side on variety breeding and standardized scale culture of Yak, Nak and mountain goats (Chyangra).
The two sides welcomed the launch of the “Lighting Up the Future” China-Nepal Political Parties’ Livelihood and Poverty Alleviation Action in Nepal, and the unveiling of “Vibrant Village,” a demonstration project of the China-South Asian Countries Poverty Alleviation and Cooperative Development Center, and expressed readiness to expand exchanges and cooperation in such areas as poverty alleviation, development, livelihood improvement and rural revitalization.
The two sides commended their mutual support in fighting COVID-19 together. The two sides expressed satisfaction over the completion and handover of the China-aided project of upgrading and renovating the Civil Service Hospital in Nepal, and are ready to further strengthen health and medical cooperation, including expediting the installation of a Bone Marrow Transplant Service at the B.P. Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital in Nepal. The Chinese side expressed its willingness to actively consider further requests for assistance programs made by the Nepali side.
The Chinese side is willing to explore methods with Nepal to gradually expand the scale of cooperation on the basis of joint education, in an effort to support Madan Bhandari University for Science and Technology.
The two sides welcomed the establishment of the China-Nepal Traditional Medicine Cooperation Commission in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding on Traditional Chinese Medicine of People’s Republic of China and the Ministry of Health and Population of Nepal. Both sides will continue to support the China-Nepal Traditional Chinese Medicine Center in providing free medical treatment, personnel training, medical services, etc. in Nepal, and support the Chinese medical team in Nepal in establishing a new medical facility in Kathmandu.
9.The Nepali side expressed its appreciation for China’s valuable support for the economic and social development of Nepal. The two sides agreed to expedite the implementation of the post-earthquake reconstruction projects that had been agreed upon.
The two sides are ready to further discuss expanding cooperation on emergency management and disaster prevention, reduction and relief. The Chinese side is ready to advance the project of offering technical assistance to the information platform of the National Emergency Operation Center Project in Nepal, and work for the sound operation and maintenance of the China-aided Earthquake Monitoring Network Project in Nepal. The two sides agreed to carry out exchanges in such fields as seismology, seismic zonation and earthquake resistance of historic buildings. The Chinese side will provide technical training to the Nepali side on disaster prevention and reduction.
10. The two sides agreed to undertake joint inspection of China-Nepal boundary. The two sides agreed to bring into force the Agreement Between the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Government of Nepal on the Boundary Management System as soon as possible. The two sides agreed to continue consultations on the Protocol between the Ministry of Public Security of the People’s Republic of China and the Ministry of Home Affairs of Nepal on the Establishment of Boundary Contact System at Three Levels, so as to elevate the level of border management and cooperation between the two countries.
The two sides maintained that law enforcement cooperation is of great significance to the security of the two countries, and agreed to further strengthen information exchange, capacity building and cooperation on training between their law enforcement institutions. The two sides agreed to expedite the ratification of the China-Nepal Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters.
11. The two sides are ready to step up exchanges and cooperation at all levels in such areas as education, science and technology, telecommunication, culture, tourism, radio and television, think tank, and youth. The two sides expressed satisfaction over the signing of the Agreement between the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology of the Government of Nepal and the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China on Cooperation in the Fields of Science and Technology and Innovation. The two sides agreed to discuss cooperation in such areas as digital economy, digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence, among others.
The two sides support more friendly exchanges and cooperation between their scholars, students, artists and private sector entrepreneurs.
The Chinese side will continue to support Nepal’s cultural and tourism institutions at various levels in participating in flexible formats in the cultural and tourism exchange activities held by China and organizing tourism promotion events in China, and will encourage more Chinese tourists to visit Nepal. The two sides agreed to declare the Year 2025 as the Nepal Visit Year in China with a view to promoting Chinese tourists in Nepal. The Chinese side welcomed Nepali friendship organizations’ participation in the 8th China South Asia Friendship Organizations’ Forum. The two sides look forward to establishing a sister city relationship between various cities of the two countries to promote and deepen the people-to-people contacts.
The two sides expressed satisfaction over the signing of the MoU between the National Administration of Press and Publication of the People’s Republic of China and the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation of the Government of Nepal on the Translation and Publication of Classics.
The Nepali side pledged to provide the Chinese side a pair of Ek Singhe Gaida (unicorn rhino) as a gift from the Government and people of Nepal to the Government and people of China, as a symbol for the long-lasting friendship between the two countries.
The Chinese side is ready to support Chinese language education in Nepal by providing more Chinese language testing services and sending Chinese language teachers and volunteers to Nepal. The two sides will continue to give play to the role of China Cultural Centre, Confucius Institutes, and Confucius Classroom in Nepal promoting China-Nepal cultural exchanges and cooperation.
12. The two sides stressed the importance to uphold true multilateralism, promote greater democracy in international relations, and make global governance more just and equitable. The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation within the framework of the United Nations and other multilateral mechanisms to uphold the common interest of developing countries. The two sides support the multilateral trading system, and oppose protectionism. They will work together to make economic globalization more open, inclusive, balanced and beneficial for all, promote global and regional peace, security, development and prosperity, and build a community with a shared future for mankind.
The Nepali side supports the Global Development Initiative (GDI) proposed by China, and will consider to join the Group of Friends of the GDI. The Chinese side is ready to strengthen experience sharing on development with the Nepali side.
13. The two sides expressed satisfaction over the outcomes of Prime Minister Prachanda’s visit to China, and agreed that the visit is of great significance to advancing the China-Nepal Strategic Partnership of Cooperation Featuring Ever-lasting Friendship for Development and Prosperity. Prime Minister Prachanda expressed appreciation to the Chinese Government and people for their warm and friendly reception, and invited Chinese leaders to visit Nepal. The Chinese leaders thanked Prime Minister Prachanda for the invitation, and the two sides will maintain communication via diplomatic channels.
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