Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' has expressed that his recent visit to China has significantly strengthened the mutual trust and historical ties between the two countries. During his visit, Prachanda had productive discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Li Qiang, which have further elevated the Nepal-China relations to new heights. One of the key outcomes of the visit was the reaffirmation of commitment from both sides to implement previously reached Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in various sectors.

On Sep 23rd morning, Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Prachanda arrived at Hangzhou, China, started his official visit to China. Warmly welcome Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Prachanda and all delegation members! pic.twitter.com/pIEtBFMPyz

— Ambassador Chen Song (@PRCAmbNepal) September 23, 2023

Prachanda highlighted the importance of this visit, as it was the first high-level visit from Nepal after President Xi Jinping's state visit in 2019. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the visit has successfully consolidated the climate of mutual trust between Nepal and China. During the meetings, discussions were held on various important agendas such as the construction of a transmission line in the northern border region, installation of solar power in areas where electricity cannot be accessed through the central grid, construction of roads, and cooperation in the health and agriculture sectors.

The reopening of border transit points and traditional border crossing points, which were closed due to the pandemic, was also discussed. Both sides also explored cooperation in the fields of science, technology, and bilateral trade. Prachanda emphasized Nepal's commitment to the One-China policy and reiterated that the Nepal-China ties are based on principles such as 'panchasheel', cordial friendship, cooperation, respect for international norms and values, and the rule of law. The visit has garnered positive responses within Nepal as well.

The CPN-Maoist Centre spokesperson, Agni Prasad Sapkota, stated that the visit has successfully strengthened friendly relations between the two countries and opened doors for collaboration. Sapkota further emphasized that the agreements reached during the visit have laid the foundation for economic development between Nepal and China. Notably, an agreement to construct a 220 KV Chilime-Kerung transmission line for power exchange holds significant importance in this regard. Overall, the visit has added a new dimension to the bilateral relations, resolved key issues, and fostered a better understanding of each other's sensitivities and aspirations.

Furthermore, discussions were held regarding the regular operation of Pokhara International Airport, and preparations are underway for direct two-way flights between Pokhara and Chengdu in China. This development will deepen people-to-people ties and promote tourism between the two countries. Foreign Minister Narayan Prakash Saud, who accompanied Prachanda on the visit, echoed the success of the visit from both economic and diplomatic perspectives. He highlighted the importance of the agreements reached, particularly in the agricultural sector, which will help reduce Nepal's trade deficit with China and boost exports of agricultural products.

In addition, the delegation's visit to Kailash Mansarovar, a religious site, aimed to promote Nepal's religious tourism and create a suitable environment for millions of Hindu pilgrims, including those from India, to visit the region. Overall, Prime Minister Prachanda's visit to China has not only fostered a stronger bond between the two countries but also opened up new avenues for cooperation and economic development. The agreements and understandings reached during the visit have set a solid foundation for the future of Nepal-China relations.