Chinese envoy: Make the best of your location between two large economies

KATHMANDU, APR 03 -

Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Wu Chuntai has stressed on the need for a tripartite coalition between Nepal, China and India for Nepal’s development. Stating that Nepal has immense opportunities because of its location between the two huge economies, he urged the private sector to make the best of it.

At an interaction with the Federation

of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) here on Tuesday, Wu said China was ready to help Nepal in political, economic and cultural terms under

the Comprehensive Cooperative Partnership model. Stating that his country was ready to share its success with neighbouring countries, he said Nepal is in China’s priority.

According to Wu, the Chinese government s interested in financing Nepal’s mega projects such as Pokhara Airport, Kathmandu Ring road, hydropower projects, tourism, herbs and biodiversity. “The Chinese government is also interested in encouraging cooperation between the private sectors of the countries,” he said.

He also stressed on the need for attracting more Chinese tourists so as to minimise Nepal’s growing trade deficit with China. He pledged help for Nepal’s tourism promotion. Wu termed the government’s decision to construct the Mid Hill Highway “farsighted” and said the Chinese government was committed to provide continued support to Nepal for road infrastructure.

On the occasion, FNCCI President Suraj Vaidya underscored the need for Chinese investment in sectors like, tourism infrastructure, construction, energy, mines and minerals, industry, education and health, among others. Stating the trade deficit has been a troubling issue for the country, he requested the Chinese ambassador for his support in expanding Chinese investment in Nepal.

President Vaidya also stressed on the need for forming a joint team to study Nepal-China economic and investment prospects and resolution of challenges. He presented his plan that the FNCCI would initiate the project in collaboration with both the governments.

“In collaboration with All China Federation of Industry and Commerce (ACFIC), we have planned to give a new acceleration to Nepal-China non-governmental support,” said Vaidya, adding an ACFIC team will visit Nepal in May, while an FNCCI team will visit China in June.

Source: The Kathmandu Post