KATHMANDU: Speaking at the Parliament, Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli said the Himalayan nation wants a cordial relationship with India and China and does not believe in playing “games” with its neighbours for short-term political gains. Oli, who has only recently returned from his six-day visit to China, was briefing the House about his “positive” visit to Beijing. He highlighted the agreements inked by both the countries during the trip. “The agreements we've reached show our commitment towards realising our common goal of development and prosperity,” Oli said.
He said his government was keen on ensuring Nepal's development and prosperity and the only way to do so was by maintaining a cordial relationship with India and China. “We do not play card games with (China or India) for short political gains and we stand with our neighbours in good and bad times. For this reason, our foreign and global policies are guided with honest intentions that will not hinge country's security, sovereignty and world peace.” Oli said Nepal and China had agreed to resume Tatopani entry point by May 2019, while setting up better infrastructures at Rasuwagadi and Kerung. “The railway connectivity is an important agreement as it will help to speed up development and increase economic activities.”
Both, Nepal and China have also agreed to intensify implementation of the MoU on cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative to enhance connectivity. “The initiative encompasses vital components such as ports, roads, railways, aviation and communications within the overarching framework of trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network,” Oli said. Both sides also agreed to take practical measures to promote cooperation in all fields mentioned in the MoU, according to the 14-point Nepal-China joint statement which was released on the conclusion of Oli's visit.
Oli had held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang, following which a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed to build a strategic railway link connecting Tibet with Kathmandu through the arduous Himalayan terrain.
