Nepal, China review bilateral relations for economic opportunities

KATHMANDU: The 16th Meeting of Nepal-China Diplomatic Consultation Mechanism reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations between the two countries. The meeting between the foreign ministries of Nepal and the People’s Republic of China assessed the progress made in implementing agreements, memoranda of understanding (MoUs), and past decisions.

In the meeting held in Kathmandu on Tuesday, Foreign Secretary Sewa Lamsal led the Nepali delegation, while the Chinese delegation was led by Sun Weidong, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of China.

During the meeting, both sides expressed a strong commitment to further promote cooperation in mutually agreed-upon areas, with a focus on realising economic opportunities for mutual benefit.

The heads of delegation reaffirmed the importance of Panchsheel, the five principles of peaceful coexistence, mutual trust, goodwill, and understanding as the guiding principles of Nepal-China bilateral relations, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Foreign Secretary Lamsal expressed gratitude to her Chinese counterpart for the commitment to enhancing development cooperation, especially in light of Nepal’s upcoming graduation from LDC in 2026. Vice Minister Sun, in turn, appreciated Nepal’s adherence to the One-China Principle.

Both sides discussed maintaining the tradition of regular high-level exchanges. They explored ways to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure development, connectivity, agriculture, and other areas. Additionally, they highlighted Nepal’s tourism prospects in China, particularly in the context of celebrating 'Visit Nepal Year in China' in 2025.

The 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China will be celebrated through special programmes and activities in 2025. Both sides emphasised the need to activate existing bilateral mechanisms and establish new ones, including a Joint Commission at the level of Foreign Ministers.

The Nepali delegation included Joint Secretary and Head of North East Asia Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Krishna Prasad Dhakal, along with senior officials from relevant ministries and agencies.

The Chinese delegation included Ambassador of China to Nepal, Chen Song, and other senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China and the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu.

Earlier on Monday, Vice Minister Sun paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal. He is also scheduled to meet with President Ramchandra Paudel and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Narayan Kaji Shrestha today.

Vice Minister Sun and his delegation, who arrived in Kathmandu on Monday, will depart for Beijing today.