Fin Min in Brussels; holds meetings with donor agencies

KATHMANDU: A Nepali delegation led by Finance Minister Dr. Ram Sharan Mahat called on Daid O'Sullevan, Chief Operating Officer at European External Action Service in Brussels on Friday.

The delegation left for Brussels to take part in Asia Programming Consultation Seminar on Thursday.

On the occasion, Minister Mahat discussed about constitution drafting, political issues and bilateral relationship between the two countries.

During the discussion, Sullevan said that he was concerned about the constitution drafting and local polls in Nepal. In response, Mahat remarked that the government is committed to promulgate the constitution within a year and hold local polls within six months.

Similarly, Minister Mahat met Director of European Investment Bank (EIB), Francisco De Paula today.

On the occasion, Paula said that EIB is committed to provide Rs. 1.5 billion assistance to Nepal to complete the Tanahun Hydropower.

According to him, EIB is committed to provide US dollar 120 million aid to Nepal for construction of the corridor of Kali Gandaki and Marsyangdi Hydro Power.

Besides that the EIB has promised to provide USD 30 million to increase the power of Trishuli Corridor.

On the occasion, Minsiter Mahat expressed happiness to the EIB for providing assistance to develop hydropower in Nepal. He further urged the bank to provide assistance in the sectors of irrigation and roads in Nepal.

Ambassador of Nepal to European Union, Ram Mani Pokharel and Joint secretary at Finance Ministry, Madhu Kumar Marasini among others were present on the occasion.

Source:  THT