Discussion held on expanding investment and tourism opportunities in Nepal

Kathmandu / June 27: Investment, trade and tourism opportunities in Nepal, along with ways to further strengthen Nepal-China economic cooperation, were discussed at a programme organized in Lhasa, the capital of China’s Xizang Autonomous Region.

The event, organized recently by the Consulate General of Nepal in Lhasa, brought together 113 participants, including Executive Vice Chairman of the People’s Government of the Xizang Autonomous Region Zhao Peng, senior officials of the regional government, Chinese investors already investing or interested in investing in Nepal, Chinese businesspersons engaged in trade with Nepal, Nepali entrepreneurs based in Lhasa, tourism entrepreneurs and other stakeholders.

The programme, chaired by Consul General Laxmi Prasad Niraula, featured a presentation by Consul Sabin Bhattarai on Nepal’s prospects for trade, tourism and investment. A promotional video highlighting Nepal’s investment climate, tourism potential and trade opportunities was also screened.

According to a press release issued by the Consulate General on Friday, chief guest Zhao Peng said the Consulate General of Nepal had played an important role in strengthening relations between Nepal and China. Describing Nepal as China’s true friend, he said the two countries have consistently respected each other’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence.

He said the Xizang regional government was ready to provide all necessary support to the Consulate General and expressed confidence that his recent visit to Nepal had further strengthened bilateral ties. Referring to Nepal as a beautiful, peaceful and friendly country, he encouraged Chinese investors to visit, do business and invest in Nepal.

Similarly, Consul General Niraula expressed gratitude for the goodwill and support extended to Nepal by the Government of China, the Xizang Autonomous Region and the Chinese people.

He said Nepal-China relations, particularly Nepal-Xizang ties, have been built on mutual trust, friendship and cooperation since the time of Princess Bhrikuti and the renowned artist Araniko. Reiterating Nepal’s firm commitment to the One China Principle, he said Nepali territory would not be allowed to be used against any friendly country.

He said the programme had been organized to inform Chinese government agencies and investors about Nepal’s trade, tourism and investment opportunities and to promote broader bilateral economic cooperation, adding that it had been successful in terms of both participation and quality.

Prior to the programme, Consul General Niraula paid a courtesy call on Executive Vice Chairman Zhao Peng. During the meeting, he said recent high-level visits between Nepal and China had further strengthened bilateral relations.

He requested China’s support for the development of border infrastructure, facilitation of cross-border trade and movement, easier business operations and travel for Nepalis residing in Xizang, and simplified visa and Tibet travel permit procedures for Nepali nationals.

He also sought China’s support for the restoration of the historic Saraswati Temple in Lhasa and the Nepali-style Bhimsen Temple in Shigatse.

In response, Zhao Peng said Nepal and Xizang share not only a border linked by the Himalayas and rivers but also deep historical and cultural ties.

He said China was ready to cooperate on border management, would take initiatives for the restoration of the Saraswati and Bhimsen temples, and remained prepared to construct a permanent bridge over the border river at Rasuwagadhi, according to the press release. RSS