Minister Khadka calls his India visit successful, announces cooperation on mega projects

KATHMANDU: Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Dipak Khadka, stated that his visit to India was successful for the development of Nepal's energy sector.

Minister Khadka, who returned home on Wednesday evening after participating in the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Conference held in New Delhi, told a press conference at Tribhuvan International Airport that there had been positive discussions with India regarding the expedited progress of Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project (PMP), Arun, and other mega projects.

"There is an agreement between Nepal and India to coordinate for the progress of the projects and take them forward immediately," Minister Khadka said, adding that India has shown serious interest and concern in the development of Nepal's energy sector.

Minister Khadka mentioned that the Government of Nepal had discussions with the large business community and organisations of India on meeting the target of producing 28,500 megawatts (MW) of electricity by 2035. During the conference, the ISA pledged to support the development of Nepal's solar energy.

During his visit to India, Minister Khadka held separate meetings with Indian Union Minister of Jal Shakti, CR Patil; President of the ISA and India's Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi; and Union Minister of Power, Manohar Lal Khattar.

Minister Khadka also mentioned that the Indian energy minister expressed his commitment to visiting Nepal. He emphasised the need for more investment in the hydropower sector and creating a favourable environment. He remarked that, if there is a favourable working environment, multiple Indian companies are eager to work on Nepal's hydropower development.

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