Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal’s Visit to China: In-Depth Discussions on BRI and Other Projects
Summary: Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal arrived in Beijing on Sunday for a four-day visit to China, invited by his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. During the trip, he focused on discussions concerning the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and other projects under bilateral agreements. He emphasized that trade, tourism, infrastructure, technology, energy, and connectivity remain the government’s top priorities for Nepal’s economic prosperity. (May 31, Beijing)
During his four-day visit to China, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal reached Beijing on Sunday and planned in-depth talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi regarding BRI and other projects under bilateral agreements. Invited by Wang Yi, he also took part in a welcome event organized by the Nepali community, where he expressed his priorities related to the BRI and other subjects.
Minister Khanal highlighted the importance of carefully considering Nepal’s benefits and the financial structure of any project before proceeding. “We signed a memorandum of understanding on the BRI in 2017 and a framework agreement in 2024. Various projects within the BRI have already been identified. Currently, we have no doubts that these projects under the BRI or bilateral agreements are necessary for Nepal,” he stated.
“However, there are critical considerations as these projects advance, which will also be addressed in my meeting with my Chinese counterpart tomorrow.” He underscored three key questions: What are Nepal’s essential needs? What financial modalities will be mutually agreeable? What economic benefits will Nepal gain from the projects? “There could now be project-focused discussions on how to move forward with mutually agreed projects,” Minister Khanal added.
“This is a fundamental aspect of the bilateral relationship.” He expressed Nepal’s commitment to collaborate with China on connectivity, infrastructure, trade, tourism, and technology—the areas Nepal deems essential. “All of these sectors are now the government’s primary focus, and we are eager to cooperate. I will convey this message not only here but also in tomorrow’s formal meetings,” he stated.
He also noted that his visit prioritizes two main areas. Elaborating on these priorities, he explained: First, strengthening relations with neighboring and friendly countries through high-level visits is extremely important. He hopes for continuous high-level bilateral visits from both sides, believing these will deepen the relationship. This is his foremost priority.
Second, under Nepal’s unique political circumstances, a strong government has been formed through elections, receiving a significant public mandate. The country aspires to good governance and economic prosperity. Advancing cooperation between the two countries is a central focus. Representing the Nepalese government, he came with this message. According to Minister Khanal, the sectors of trade, tourism, infrastructure, technology, energy, and connectivity have been prioritized to achieve economic prosperity in line with government policies.