Chinese Ambassador Song discusses bilateral trade with Minister Rijal

KATHMANDU, May 23: Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song, paid a courtesy call to Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supply, Ramesh Rijal, on Monday. 

During the meeting held at the ministry, they discussed bilateral relations, development assistance, and the opening of border points.

Minister Rijal praised Chinese Ambassador Song, saying he had an active role in strengthening bilateral relations between Nepal and China. He believed that the bilateral relations would be further strengthened in the days ahead.

The two-country relations are special, Minister Rijal said, reiterating that Nepal was committed to not letting anyone misuse Nepali territory against China.

He informed that of the total foreign trade, trade with China comprises 14 percent. China is Nepal's second largest trade partner, according to Minister Rijal.  However, Nepal was incurring huge losses in trade with China. 

Minister Rijal also reminded various mechanisms to facilitate Nepal-China trade. Even the meeting of the joint consultation mechanism established for implementing the transit and transport agreement was not held, he said, urging Ambassador for an immediate meeting between the concerned mechanisms in Kathmandu and Beijing.

The Minister however expressed happiness over the re-operation of the Tatopani, Rasuwa and Hilsa border points. He requested the Chinese Ambassador to open further border points soon. 

The Chinese Ambassador Song was drawn attention to opening Nechung-Liji, Kimathanka, Olangchunggola, and other border points. 

Rijal thanked China for its assistance and collaboration in Nepal's development. He hoped China would extend further assistance and provide foreign direct investment.
 
On the occasion, Ambassador Song thanked Nepal for supporting the One China policy. He believed bilateral relations would be further strengthened between China and Nepal. 

The Ambassador also said China was positive to extend development assistance and foreign direct investment.