Nepal-China seal 11 billion second phase Ring Road expansion deal

The long-awaited second phase of Kathmandu Ring Road expansion is going to begin following a formal agreement signed today between the Government of Nepal and the People’s Republic of China.
Under the agreement, the Chinese government will provide a grant of approximately Rs 11 billion to upgrade the 8.2-kilometer road from Kalanki to Basundhara. The project includes widening the road to eight lanes and constructing several new bridges and pedestrian overpasses, according to a press note issued by the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure, Transport, and Urban Development.
The agreement was signed at the Ministry by Minister for Physical Infrastructure, Transport, and Urban Development Sunil Lamsal and Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Zhang Maoming. This phase follows the successful completion of the first section-the Koteshwar-Kalanki stretch-which was also built with Chinese assistance, it reads.
Speaking after the ceremony, Minister Lamsal emphasized a new 'zero-delay' approach to the construction. "The government has prioritised north-south connectivity as a national goal," he said, adding, "I am personally committed to ensuring that any administrative or technical hurdles arising during implementation are resolved within 24 hours to keep the project on track."
"The agreement related to assistance under the second phase of the Ring Road expansion has been completed today," he said, adding that the assistance agreement was signed with the Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Zhang Maoming. "On behalf of the government, a commitment has been expressed to resolve any problems arising during the project’s implementation within a day and to provide necessary facilitation."
Ambassador Maoming echoed the sentiment of cooperation, stating that the project serves as a cornerstone of bilateral infrastructure ties. He added that Chinese investors are increasingly looking at Nepal's energy and transport sectors, provided the 'suitable investment environment' continues to improve.
The Department of Roads confirmed that the expansion will address previous design concerns by incorporating modern medians, streetlights, and disabled-friendly overhead bridges. With the agreement signed, a Chinese technical team is expected to arrive at the site shortly, the press note adds.

Nepal-Tibet meeting reviews Aid Projects in Nepal

The first meeting of the Aid Projects to Nepal (2024-2028) took place in Lhasa, China’s Tibet Autonomous Region on April 23 and 24.

The first meeting was co-chaired by joint secretary of the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration Kamal Prasad Bhattarai and director general of the Foreign Affairs Office of the China’s Tibet Autonomous Region Baiman Yangzong.

On the occasion, the discussions were focused on the coordination mechanism of aid projects by the Tibet Autonomous Region, China to Nepal in terms of work schedule, selection modality of the projects, and the ways of implementation and monitoring, according to a press note issued by the Nepali consulate in Lhasa.

During the meeting, both sides agreed to hold the meeting of aid projects twice in the first half of the year, so as to focus on the projects arrangements and twice in the second half of the year for the implementation and review of the implemented projects. Furthermore, the two sides underlined the need to enhance the level of support for improving the livelihood of people residing in bordering districts in the Northern Himalayan region of Nepal through the Aid Projects.

On Wednesday, joint secretary at the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration and the head of Nepali Delegation Kamal Prasad Bhattarai paid a courtesy call on executive vice-chairman of the People’s Government of Tibet Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China Chen Yongqi. During the meeting, views were exchanged on matters of mutual interests; including the promotion of socio-economic linkages for further strengthening Nepal-China relations.

The second meeting of the Aid Projects to Nepal will take place on a mutually convenient date in May 2024, the press note reads.

The delegation also visited the Consulate General of Nepal in Lhasa, where Consul General Navaraj Dhakal welcomed and hosted Luncheon in honour of the joint secretary and his delegation. 

The Nepali delegation will visit Ali Prefecture and its vicinity on Thursday. The delegation is scheduled to return Kathmandu on Friday.

The delegation of Nepal included officials from the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General administration, Consulate General of Nepal in Lhasa. Likewise, the Chinese delegation comprised the high-ranking officials of the Foreign Affairs of China’s TAR.

China is providing 300,000 doses of Covid-19 vaccine as grant assistance

 After India, now China has come forward to help Nepal get vaccine against Covid-19 on the request of the government.

Issuing a press note today, the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu said that China has decided to provide 300,000 doses of Covid-19 vaccine under grant assistance to Nepal. “The Chinese government has decided to provide 300,000 doses of Covid-19 vaccines under grant assistance to Nepal, which will benefit 150,000 Nepalis,” The press note reads, adding that China and Nepal are good neighbours, good friends and good partners. “Facing whatever challenges like the earthquake and the pandemic, the two countries have always supported and helped each other through thick and thin.”

“Despite huge demands for the vaccines both in China domestically and across the world at present, the Chinese government has prioritised Nepal in providing the vaccines, fully demonstrating the great importance it attaches to the China-Nepal friendship," the press note reads, adding that the vaccine to be donated to Nepal is developed by the Sinopharm and has already got conditional marketing approval in China. “After a two-dose inoculation procedure, the vaccine shows 79.34 per cent efficacy against Covid-19, and the seroconversion rate of neutralising antibodies reached 99.52 per cent.”

The safety and effectiveness of the vaccine has surpassed the marketing standards of the World Health Organisation (WHO), and received wide recognition by other countries. “The vaccine has got licenses for marketing or approval for emergency use in 13 countries including Pakistan, the UAE, Egypt, and Hungary.

The embassy is coordinating with Nepali authorities on the registration for emergency use and receipt of the vaccine and would like to deliver the vaccines to the Nepali side at the earliest so as to help Nepal win the battle against the Covid-19 pandemic, according to the press note. “The Chinese side is willing to work together with the Nepali side to build a community of health for all and further strengthen and promote the strategic partnership of cooperation featuring the ever-lasting friendship for development and prosperity between the two countries.”

India has provided 1 million corona vaccine to Nepal as the gift under its 'neighbourhood first' policy.

Nepal-China celebrate 65th anniversary

Nepal and China today celebrated the 65th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and the People’s Republic of China.
Nepal and China established diplomatic relations on 1 August 1955. The first envoy of China to Nepal used to be the non-resident ambassador, who used to be stationed in New Delhi. But soon, China sent a separate envoy to Nepal and Nepal reciprocated.
On the occasion, Presidents, Prime Ministers and Foreign Ministers of Nepal and the People’s Republic of China exchange the congratulatory messages to mark the special day. President Mrs Bidya Devi Bhandari sent a congratulatory message to President of China Xi Jinping.
President Bhandari – in the message – said that strong bond of friendship between the two countries will be further strengthened in the days ahead. She also recalled the historic state visit of President Xi to Nepal last October during which Nepal and China decided to elevate their relations to Strategic Partnership of Cooperation Featuring Ever-lasting Friendship for Development and Prosperity. The President also recalled her state visit to China in April 2019 during which important agreements and understandings were concluded between the two countries. She has commended the progress and prosperity attained by China and wished for the success in realizing two centennial goals of China. The President has also appreciated Chinese cooperation to Nepal in its socio-economic development and the assistance to fight against Covid-19 pandemic through the support of essential medical supplies and sharing of knowledge and experiences.
Likewise, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has also sent congratulatory messages to President of China Xi Jinping and Premier of the State Council of China Li Keqiang. The Prime Minister – in the messages – has extended warm congratulations and best wishes to the Chinese President and Premier and through them to the government and the people of China on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Highlighting the deep-rooted cordial friendship since ages, the Prime Minister underlined that Nepal has consistently maintained ‘One China Policy’ and China has always respected Nepal’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence. He has also recalled the historic state visit of the Chinese President to Nepal in October 2019, and his two official visits to China in 2016 and 2018. The Prime has also expressed commitment to translate the consensus reached during the visits into action. “The bilateral agreements concluded during these visits on promoting infrastructure development and connectivity, including the Transit Transport Agreement and its Protocol and feasibility study of Nepal-China Cross-border Railway project are significant in enhancing the bilateral cooperation,” his message reads, appreciating the Belt and Road initiative. “It will offer an important platform to Nepal to pursue its development agenda, including those components falling under Trans-Himalayan Multi-dimensional Connectivity Network.”
Similarly, President of China Xi Jinping – in his congratulatory message to President Mrs Bidya Devi Bhandari – stated that the two countries have respected and treated each other as equals, strengthened political mutual trust and deepened mutually beneficial cooperation since the establishment of diplomatic relations 65 years ago. He also expressed his readiness to work with Nepal to push China-Nepal relations forward, deliver greater benefits to the two peoples and make positive contribution to the stability and development of the region.
Premier of the State Council of China Li Keqiang – in his message – to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has stated that China and Nepal are close neighbours linked by mountains and rivers and added that in 65 years China-Nepal relations and cooperation have advanced stably and continuously. He has expressed desire to work with Nepali side in strengthening multi-dimensional cooperation in various areas, promote Belt and Road cooperation and push bilateral relations to a new stage.
Likewise, foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali has sent congratulatory message to State Councilor and Minister of Foreign Affairs of China Wang Yi. In his congratulatory message, Wang Yi has also expressed his willingness to work together with foreign minister Gyawali to strengthen communication and cooperation, implement the important consensus reached between the leaders and make positive contribution to the development of China-Nepal Strategic Partnership of Cooperation Featuring Ever-lasting Friendship for Development and Prosperity.

Himalaya Airlines to operate two repatriation flights to Kunming

Himalaya Airlines is operating two repatriation flights to Kunming of China on July 31.
The company – issuing a press note today – said that it is carrying out the repatriation flights to bring back Nepalis, who are stranded in Kunming of China due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The government has permitted and authorised the airliner to carry out repatriation flights to Kunming, the press note reads, adding that two aircraft will be sent to China to bring Nepalis, who want to return Nepal. “The passengers will be allowed to bring 30-kg check-in baggage and 7-kg hand carry.”
The airliner has fixed $445 fare for the respective flights.
Meanwhile, the airline company said that it will operate the flights only, if the aircraft has 85 per cent occupancy. All passengers are required to present proof that their PCR or RDT test is negative at the time of the booking, the press note reads, adding that the passengers will have to mandatorily stay in quarantine upon arrival as per the rules enforced by the government.
The airline has evacuated Nepalis stranded abroad since the government announced the guidelines to bring back Nepalis wanting to come back home. Covid-19 has left many Nepali migrant workers jobless abroad including in China. Though the government has been repatriating stranded Nepalis from different countries through special charter flights, Nepal is resuming regular aviation service – both domestic and international flights – from August 17. The government had suspended all domestic and international flights from March 22 to contain the spread of Covid-19 in the country. 

Cable operators not to air Indian news channels in Nepal

The cable service providers decided to stop airing Indian news channels in Nepal with immediate effect from today.
“Viewers will not have access to any Indian news channels, except for the Indian state owned Doordarshan news,” according to the Multi-System Operators (MSO). The vice chairman of Mega Max TV Dhruba Sharma confirmed that the domestic cable operators today took the decision not to air Indian news channels with immediate effect.
Earlier today, the spokesperson of the ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP) Narayan Kaji Shrestha had slammed the Indian media for their ‘nonsense’ reports on matters related to Nepal and the Nepali government. He also said that the Indian media must stop the baseless propaganda against Nepal government and Prime Minister Oli.
Expressing his disbelief on the extent to which some media channels have gone to defame the current government, he said that the baseless propaganda by the Indian media against the Nepal government and Prime Minister Oli has crossed all limits. “Nepal is always united as far as issues related to the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity are concerned.”
Likewise, Information Technology and Communication Minister, and spokesperson of the government Dr Yuba Raj Khatiwada also – dueing today’s press briefing – condemned a section of the Indian media which ‘engaged in the character assassination of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Chinese ambassador to Nepal Hou Yanqi, recently.’
Khatiwada said that the government may seek political and legal remedies through diplomatic channels against baseless Indian media coverage which has undermined Nepal's sovereignty and dignity. “We urge the entire media including from our neighboring countries not to undermine Nepal's sovereignty and dignity," he added.
A section of Indian media has been broadcasting an imaginative and defamatory reports on the Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli along with the Chinese envoy.
Indian news channels have been broadcasting misleading news contents – without following even a minimum level of ethics of journalism – related to Nepal in recent days amid the tense relations between the two neighbours after Nepal issued its new political map including the disputed regions of Kalapani, Lipu Lekh and Limpiyadhura.
Back home, people from various walks of life including political parties, media fraternity, civil society and intellectual community have vented their ire on social media – particularly against a recent imaginary and defamatory 16-minute show with an offensive headline run by Zee News linking PM Oli with Chinese ambassador to Nepal Yanqi – for their baseless propaganda against Nepal government and PM Oli.
The Federation of Nepalese Journalists (FNJ), Press Council Nepal and other media organisations have also vented ire against the Indian media reports.
Likewise, Former Foreign Minister Kamal Thapa also slammed such deliberate and sustained campaign of mudslinging against PM Oli reports by a section of Indian media. “We have serious differences with PM Oli on many issues, including his conduct of international relations but the reports by a section of Indian media cannot be acceptable,” he said.
Earlier this week, The Times of India published a disrespectful picture of PM Oli in its editorial. Indo Asian News Service (IANS), India Today, WION, Times Now, Republic TV and Zee Hindustan are other Indian media outlets which ran baseless reports linking PM Oli with the Chinese ambassador to Nepal.

Nepal can join MCC: Chinese envoy

Though a section in the country is opposing implementation of Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) grant suspecting that it could be tantamount to joining a US-led military alliance, China claimed that it has no problem with Nepal joining MCC Compact Programme.
“Nepal as a least-developed country needs international support and assistance, not only from China, but also from other countries,” Chinese ambassador to Nepal Hou Yanqi said speaking at a press briefing organised at the Embassy this morning.
China welcomes any kind of assistance to Nepal, if it is in the area of economic cooperation,” she said, adding that Nepal can decide on its own without any external intervention. “Economic cooperation should be forged equally and should benefit the Nepali people and promote Nepal’s national interests.”
“Nepal can take its decision on its national interest,” she added.
She however, said that the China-India Plus – or ‘Two plus one’ – concept of cooperation mooted by Beijing essentially meant trilateral cooperation. “The concept did not deem Nepal as a very small country but China and India will play leading roles,” she said, explaining that the trilateral cooperation will be a win-win cooperation. “We have successfully started this cooperation model from Afghanistan," she said.
Though, Nepal is still not comfortable with China-India Plus one – Two plus one – she said that the trilateral cooperation could be forged in the areas of infrastructure, telecommunications and training courses.
Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian PM Narendra Modi – during Wuhan Summit on April 27-28, 2018 – have proposed the China-India Plus concept. But the leaders of ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP) – including Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli – are against the China-India Plus concept. Chinese President Xi – during his visit to Nepal last October – also floated the idea to Nepal as China seems interested in further enhancing India-China Plus concept to develop a common strategy for Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan and Africa.
Nepal however is suspecting that China and India will have bigger roles and Nepal will have little role under ‘Two plus one’ cooperation model.
Likewise, speaking on recent arrests of more than 120 Chinese nationals in Nepal, the ambassador said that the Chinese authorities had communicated with their Nepali counterparts after they found the individuals’ involvement in cyber crime. Saying that investigations against them are underway in Nepal, the envoy also said it is up to the Nepali side whether to deport them or not. 

Preliminary study of Tokha-Rasuwagadi road started

A Chinese technical team has started a preliminary study of the tunnel section of proposed Tokha-Rasuwagadi road.
The Department of Roads (DoR) confirmed that the preliminary assessment of the Tokha-Chhahare-Gurjubhanjyang tunnel section has been started. “The team will gradually begin the study of other sections of the road project too,” director general of the department Keshav Kumar Sharma informed, adding that the team s active in the field. “The team is expected to complete the preliminary study within a few months.”
The government has planned to construct 4.17-kilometre-long tunnel to connect Tokha with Gurjubhanjyang and a 24-kilometre-long tunnel to connect Betrawati with Rasuwagadi. But the Nepali Army is also working on opening the track of the Betrawati-Rasuwagadi section citing that building a road instead of digging a tunnel would be more cost-effective.
According to a memorandum of understanding (MoU) – signed during the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping on October 13 – Nepal and China had agreed to develop a 50-km road linking Kathmandu and Rasuwagadi. During Xi’s visit, Department of Roads and China International Development Cooperation Agency had signed the agreement.
According to the agreement, China will bear majority of the cost of building the road and tunnel, including the cost of study. The team, which is working in Nepal now, will submit its report and authorities from Kathmandu and Beijing will then start the work on the detailed project report (DPR) and detailed engineering study.
Though, the government is expecting that the Chinese government will finance the strategic project that the Chinese construction companies have expressed interest to build under the build, own, operate and transfer (BOOT) model, the funding modality of the project will be discussed after the DPR is finalised.
When the project is completed, it is expected to reduce the distance and travel time between Kathmandu and Rasuwagadi, and also shortens Kathmandu’s distance with the northern border Kerung.
The Kathmandu-Rasuwagadi road is around 125-km long, and passes through Galchhi of Dhading but the distance will be reduced to 50-km once the new route is completed.

Nepal to seek clarification of relations between MCC and IPS

The ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP) is backing off from its commitment and agreement to start implementation of the mega US grant project, and seeking clarification from the US on relations between Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS).
Replying the members at the standing committee meeting co-chair of Nepal Communist Party (NCP) Pushpa Kamal Dahal today said that Nepal could accept US assistance under MCC compact programme after clearance from its relation with IPS, which some of the ruling party members think a military alliance to counter China – the northern neighbour – and Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Dahal said that Nepal could accept the MCC only after considering the strings attached to the programme, according to the NCP (NCP) standing committee member Beduram Bhusal. “We have to see how far the conditions of the MCC programme suit Nepal’s national interests,” Bhusal quoted Dahal as telling the committee. “Dahal said while Nepal should continue to enjoy its old and cordial relations with the US, it could not be part of any military alliance in the guise of any programme.”
Some of the standing committee members told the meeting that MCC is part of the IPS and hence Nepal should not accept it. They put pressure on the leadership and the government seeking clarity from the US on MCC, and its relations to IPS. “The IPS has been a subject of speculation among the political and diplomatic circles ever since foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali visited Washington last December,” they claimed.
Nepal became eligible for the MCC – announced in 2002 by US President George W Bush – in 2011 and signed the agreement in 2017. Though, the MCC compact was signed by Nepali Congress (NC) government of which the former Maoist party was a coalition partner, the ruling party – unified between former Maoist party and fomer CPN(UML) party – has been sharply divided about endorsing the US grant from the Parliament.
The implementation of MCC will start once the Nepal’s Parliament ratifies it. The MCC, however, did not pass during the previous House session because of the reluctance of then House Speaker Krishna Bahadur Mahara, though foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali assurance that MCC was not part of IPS. The government spokesperson and minister for Communication and Information Technology Gokul Baskota has – during his regular weekly press briefing – also claimed that the MCC will be ratified by the Parliament’s winter session that started yesterday. The opposing ruling party leaders did not believe even the Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who has also claimed that the MCC will be endorsed during the winter session of Parliament.
The US has announced that it will provide assistance of $500 million in grants to Nepal under the MCC programme over the next five years. Nepal has to invest more than Rs 13 billion – as a matching fund – for the programme. The grant will be used to construct the toad and transmission lines, for better connectivity. Nepal plans to use the grant to develop the 400-KV Nepal-India Butwal-Gorakhpur electricity transmission line and to upgrade some roads.
The US officials have repeatedly termed MCC an important initiative under the Washington-led IPS. The US officials including US envoy to Nepal Randy Berry have also time and again clarified that IPS is just a US ‘policy’ and it does not require or demand membership from anyone. But opposing leaders have been claiming that the MCC is part of the US military strategy IPS to counter China and Beijing’s influence.
The leaders, who are opposing the MCC, are also claiming that the provision – in the agreement – allowing only the US to terminate the agreement is faulty. “Nepal should include a provision allowing it also to terminate the agreement as the provision is against the spirit of equality between sovereign countries,” a standing committee member Bhim Rawal said, adding that Nepal should also be allowed to audit the accounts, which according to the agreement, is not allowed. Rawal – in the standing committee meeting – asked foreign minister Gyawali to seek clarification from the US, if the grant is provided as a part of the IPS.
The ongoing debate over the MCC, according to the experts, is nothing but ‘the best example of ruling party’s myopic diplomacy.’ But foreign minister Gyawali ruled out any diplomatic friction between Nepal and the US due to the ongoing debate on the US programme and the growing demand from the party members to seek clarity from Washington.

NAC finally gets permission to operate China flights

Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) has finally received permission to operate commercial flights to the northern neighbour.
The national flag carrier has finally received operating authorisation from the Chinese civil aviation authority to begin services to Guangzhou. Under the Foreign Commercial Air Transport Operators Operational Approval Rules (CCAR-129), the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) sent an official letter to NAC today allowing it to operate flights to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, according to the NAC.
Nepal Airlines had applied to Chinese authorities to fly the Kathmandu-Guangzhou route in 2015, but the national flag carrier failed to obtain permission because of a pending safety audit to gain access to Chinese airports. NAC was informed yesterday that CAAC had withdrawn its decision to conduct its safety audit, though CAAC had prevented NAC to operate flights to China citing air safety concerns raised by the European Union (EU). According to Nepal Airlines, Chinese authorities had asked a few questions regarding the operation manual before granting permission.
Though half a dozen Chinese carriers are flying to Kathmandu since long, Nepal Airlines will be the second Nepali airlines – after Himalaya Airlines – that is going to fly to China.
According to the national flag carrier, it is preparing to operate flights from the first week of February, though the date for the first flight to Guangzhou will be fixed soon. The NAC is planning to operate three flights a week to Guangzhou.
With the NAC flight, the government is planning to bring in more Chinese tourists to Nepal. According to the Department of Immigration (DoI), some 160,000 Chinese tourists visited Nepal in 2018, while a total of 134,281 Chinese tourists visited Nepal till October this year.

Himalaya Airlines begins Beijing flights

Himalaya Airlines today launched its maiden flight to Beijing, establishing the historical direct connectivity between the capital cities of the two countries.
It will be operating a thrice-weekly flight on Kathmandu-Beijing route, according to the airlines.
The airfare on Kathmandu-Beijing starts from Rs 35,000 for one-way, the airline said, adding that the new flight is the latest move in Himalaya Airlines business strategy of network expansion to boost Nepal’s connection with China, which is the second largest source market of tourists. “The airline’s growth in network follows the revised air services agreement between Nepal and China in July, which opened up five new points in China for Nepali airlines for 2019 and three more for 2020.”
According to the president of Himalaya Airlines Zhou Enyong, the flight will attract more Chinese tourists, especially from North China to Nepal. “The route is expected to ship over 40,000 Chinese passengers a year to Nepal to spend money on travel and, to make investment or have business cooperation, which will create a new engine for the development of the tourism industry chain and for all kinds of economic activities in Nepal.”
During the inauguration, tourism minister Yogesh Bhattarai said that connectivity with China will contribute to Nepal’s target to host 500,000 Chinese travellers as part of Visit Nepal 2020 (VNY2020) campaign.
“Nepal is an important international tourist destination and it is also the first choice for Chinese tourists among South Asian countries,” Chinese ambassador to Nepal Hou Yanqi said, on the occasion.
Bhattarai and Yanqi along with tourism secretary Kedar Bahadur Adhikari and high ranking officials from Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) and Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) were present for the pre departure inaugural flight cake cutting ceremony organised at the Radisson Airport Restaurant.
“The addition of Beijing route is part of the carrier’s wider commitment to Visit Nepal campaign to attract more Chinese tourists,” vice president– administration of Himalaya Airlines Vijay Shrestha said, adding that in the context of Belt and Road Initiative as well, Himalaya Airlines aims to open up new avenues for the corporate and industrial sector. “Himalaya Airlines is planning to go to three new destinations: Guiyang, Changsha and Nanchang soon to improve access to the Chinese market.”
The Nepal-China joint venture airline is catering the growing demand among the business and leisure passengers between the two countries after the new flight to Beijing that will provide seamless connectivity options for business people as well as tourists from China, offering yet more choice and convenience to our passengers.
Himalaya Airlines – an international air carrier is a Nepal-China joint Venture – established in August 2014 proudly owns the young fleet of three A320-214 series of narrow-body aircraft with the configuration of 8 Business class and 150 Economy class seats and has plans to add two A319 in its fleet in the near future to fly Trans-Himalayan ranges and launch flights to Lhasa.
The airlines is now focusing to build its connectivity with China; with its first flight to Beijing, the airlines will be spreading its wings to Changsha, Nanchang, Guiyang, Chongqing, Ali and Shenzhen.
Meanwhile, Himalaya Airline's Kathmandu-Beijing flight H9 665 landed in Beijing at 17:10 hours, according to the airlines. The first-ever direct commercial flight between Kathmandu and Beijing was welcomed at Beijing's Daxing International Airport by vice chairperson of Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) of China Luo Mei, ambassador of Nepal to China Leela Mani Paudyal, as well as other high-level dignitaries from the Chinese Government.
Speaking at a function to welcome the flight from Kathmandu, ambassador Paudyal said that the direct flight between the capital cities of Nepal and China will herald a new dawn in strengthening civil aviation cooperation between the two countries, and expressed the hope that it would help promote bilateral relations in trade, investment and people-to-people.
The inaugural flight from Kathmandu to Beijing had 59 passengers, and on the return flight from Beijing to Kathmandu it has 70 passengers.

Himalaya Airlines to start direct flight to Beijing from October 27

Himalaya Airlines will be conducting direct flight between Kathmandu and Beijing from October 27.
The Nepal-China joint venture has already made all preparations to start direct flight linking the capital cities of Nepal and China, according to the Himalaya Airlines. “We have completed all necessary preparations in regard to the operation of the direct flight from October 27,” confirmed the airlines.
The airlines will fly Airbus A-320 carrier to Beijing thrice a week, it said, adding that the direct flight between the two capital cities is going to be possible with the operation of the Daxing International Airport in Beijing.
The Airlines aims to consolidate its operation across Chinese cities gradually in consideration of the growing influx of Chinese tourists to Nepal. The Airlines is also hopeful that the direct flight on these routes will help promote the government's Visit Nepal 2020 campaign.
Likewise, Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) is also planning to start the direct flight between Kathmandu and Beijing soon. The Himalaya Airlines claimed that it will soon start its operation in three other cities in China including Guan, Changsa and Nanjing, within 2019.

China to assist Nepal in transforming it from landlocked to land-linked

Visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping today said that China will assist Nepal in transforming it from a landlocked country to land-linked country.
“China is also ready to open as many as trade transit routes with Nepal,” he said, adding that Chinese support will increase in post-quake reconstruction as well. Pledging to increase investment in the education sector of Nepal, encourage as many as Chinese nationals to promote Visit Nepal Year 2020 and address Nepal's concerns about climate change aside from promising to safeguarding common planet earth and maintaining ecology around the Sagarmatha region, he also expressed the determination to realise the projects and framework designed for development construction.
President Xi also said he was looking forward to discussing and exchanging views on matters of mutual interest and common concern with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli tomorrow.
Delivering a statement in a state banquet organised today evening in honour of visiting Chinese President Xi, President Bidya Devi Bhandari said that Nepal-China relation is deep as ocean and high as the Mt Everest. “There are immense possibilities of taking warm and friendly relations between Nepal and China based on Panchasheel to a new height,” she said, adding that our relations based on mutual understanding, respect and well-being is close, strong and free of any problems.
Recalling that relations between Nepal and China have been connected through rivers and mountains, while there is social and cultural connection between the two countries since centuries, she also highlighted the significant contribution of Chinese monks— Fa Xian (Fa Hsien) and Xuan Zang (Hsuan Tsang) – and Nepali monk Buddha Bhadra, princess Bhrikuti and artist Araniko to further strengthen people's level cultural relations between the two countries.
The high profile visit from northern neighbour after 23 year since then president Jiang Zemin visited in 1996, also witnessed assistance to Nepal.
The visiting Chinese President, on the occasion, announced a support of 3.5 billion RMB to be provided between 2020 to 2022 for uplifting the living standard of the Nepali people. He also announced that work on trans-himalaya railways would move ahead despite its difficulties. The Chinese President – who is the most powerful president after chairman Mao in China – also said that the trade imbalance between the two countries could be addressed, if Nepal exports competitive goods. Stating that he was encouraging big and quality investments from China, President Xi said support could be sought from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) as well.
President Xi – on the occasion – also signed the visitors' book.
President Xi arrived in Kathmandu this afternoon on a two-day state visit, at the friendly invitation of President Bidya Devi Bhandari.
President Bhandari, on the occasion, said that the agreements and treaties signed with China have built a foundation for Nepal's easy access to the third world countries. During the high-level bilateral talks held at the Office of the President, Sheetal Niwas after welcoming her Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping, President Bhandari said Nepal is now striving to realise the national goal of prosperous Nepal and Happy Nepalis following the establishment of a stable government.
Stating that the government is working to transform Nepal into a middle-income country by 2030, she said the government was ever ready to facilitate and safeguard Chinese investments in Nepal.
Extending gratitude for the post-quake support in Nepal, President Bhandari said Nepal was looking forward to receiving Chinese tourists during the Visit Nepal Year 2020 and support for human resource development in the country.

No Extradition Treaty during Chinese President Xi visit

As the diplomatic community and political parties in Kathmandu show serious concern about the government’s ‘plan’ to sign the Nepal-China Extradition Treaty during the high level visit from China this week end, Nepal seems to back out from its plan.
“The understanding about China pressing Nepal to sign the Extradition Treaty has raised eyebrows in Kathmandu because it needs many rounds of transparent discussions before signing,” Nepali Congress (NC) leader and former foreign minister Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat said.
Remembering that Nepali Congress (NC) has had a cordial relations with China since the time of Nepal’s first elected Prime Minister BP Koirala – an ardent sociologist and the founder of Nepali Congress Party – Mahat said that Nepal always has adopted one-China policy but the Extradition Treaty needs to be discussed thoroughly before signing.
The diplomatic circle in Kathmandu, however, is worried that the treaty could be used by China to extradite Tibetans from Nepal. There are estimated 20,000 Tibetan refugees in Nepal – mostly in Kathmandu and Pokhara – at present. Some of them, who are suspected to be involved in Free Tibet movement, according to the Nepal Police, have already been arrested before the Chinese President’s visit. But the US and European Union (EU) take it as a gross violation against the human rights, and Nepal’s international commitment in the international agreements.
Taking part in a meeting in Baluwater, the official residence of the Prime Minister today, former prime minister and Nepali Congress (NC) president Sher Bahadur Deuba also suggested the government not to sign Extradition Treaty in haste as it needs wider consultations.
The meeting called by Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli also discussed on China-backed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and US-backed Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS). The former prime ministers, and foreign experts present in the meeting reminded the government on Nepal's historic stance of non alignment. “Nepal should take advantage from both BRI and Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS), and develop itself as a trading bridge between India and China,” suggested former premier Dr Baburam Bhattarai, on the occasion.
However, another former prime minister, who was in the meeting reminding what happened in Hong Kong after the proposals to allow extradition to mainland China, said that Nepal needs to follow the international commitments and agreements it has already signed before signing any bilateral agreements that could undermine the country's judicial independence and endanger rights of refugees especially Tibetan refugees. “The Extradition Treaty may ruffle many feathers,” he suggested.
Meanwhile, NC stalwart and former finance minister Dr Ram Sharan Mahat, wishing a historic success to President Xi visit to Nepal, said that Chinese assistance should focus on Nepal’s development, prioritise based on felt needs in power sector, road connectivity, technology transfer, investment and export trade, rather than wishful thinking without techno-economic appraisal.
However, foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali – during the meeting – briefed about the Nepal’s agenda. “Nepal has connectivity on top,” he briefed.
“The shopping list includes Kerung-Kathmandu Railway, physical infrastructure upgradation at the Kimathanka and Korala border, upgradation of Rashuwagadi customs and road to Kathmandu, Tatopani customs and road to Kathmandu, Tamor Hydropower and also the Madan Bhadari University,” another former prime minister, who took part in the meeting said, without wanting to be named. “Apart from the pacts, Beijing has sent a signal that there will be a big-surprise during Xi visit.”
According to a preliminary study, the 80-km long Kerung-Kathmandu cross border railway is estimated to cost Rs 300 billion, and will take 8 years to complete.
However, a Chinese team will visit Kathmandu tomorrow to finalise the drafts of agreements that are going to be signed in presence of Chinese President Xi’s visit, a high profile visit from northern neighbour after 23 year since Jiang Zemin visited in 1996.
Accepting the friendly invitation of President Mrs Bidya Devi Bhandar, the President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping is paying a two-day state visit to Nepal on October 12 and 13.

Nepal waits to seal Kerung-Kathmandu railway deal during Chinese President’s visit

Nepal is waiting to sign an ambitious Kerung-Kathmandu cross-border railway agreement during the visit of the Chinese President Xi Jinping this weekend.
The Foreign Ministry today confirmed the Chinese President’s two-day state visit to Kathmandu accepting the friendly invitation of President Mrs Bidya Devi Bhandari. Xi will be coming to Nepal on October 12.
“The historic visit of the Chinese President will also see signing of Kerung-Kathmandu Railway agreement," said prime minister KP Sharma Oli’s foreign affairs advisor Dr Rajan Bhattarai.
“The President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping is paying a state visit to Nepal on October 12 and 13,” he said, adding that during the visit, Xi will meet with President Bhandari, who will host a banquet in honour of the Chinese president and his delegation. “President Xi will hold delegation level official talks with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, following the talks, both the leaders will witness the signing of bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding.”
One of the key agreements the Prime Ministers of both the countries will witness is much-talked about Kerung-Kathmandu Railway agreement, Bhattarai said.
However, the main opposition Nepali Congress (NC) leader and former foreign minister Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat, welcoming the high level visit from China – after 23 years since Jiang Zemin visited in 1996 – said that the Kerung-Kathmandu Railway should be constructed in Chinese grant not loan. “Kerung-Kathmandu Railway is important but more important is the road connectivity to bridge the widening trade deficit of Nepal with China,” he said, adding that the all-weather road connectivity between the two neighbours is the need of the hour, and investment (through loan) in cross border railway will not be economically feasible at present.
There are two schools of thought among Nepali intelligentsia at present, either to construct the Kerung-Kathmandu Railway in Chinese Loan or grant. The one, who thinks China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a debt-trap, opines that the Kerung-Kathmandu Railway is not economically feasible and Nepal will fall in Chinese debt trap. But the Nepal Communist Party (NCP) government – also blamed for leaning towards north – has been using the Kerung-Kathmandu Railway agreement as its key to political achievement since it has failed to perform since it came to power 2 years ago.
Different Chinese officials have also repeatedly said that the detailed project report (DPR) of Kerung-Kathmandu railway will take a lot more time to materialise due to technical, engineering and geological reasons. China is yet to connect its railway to Sigatse, from where railway can be connected to Nepal-China broder Kerung to further connect to Kathmandu.
However, a joint communiqué issued after the conclusion of the Second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing in April had incorporated the Nepal-China Trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network and Nepal-China cross-border railway.
Xi will be flying to Kathmandu from Mamallapuram near Chennai in India where the Chinese President and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be meeting on October 11 and 12 for the second ‘informal summit’ after the Wuhan Summit last April.
The press note from the Foreign Ministry also stated that the Chennai informal summit will provide an opportunity for the two leaders to continue their discussions on overarching issues of bilateral, regional and global importance.

IBN, Chinese company seal deal for Damak Industrial Park

The government and Damak Clean Industrial Park Pvt Ltd (DCIPPL) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the construction of the 'China-Nepal Friendship Industrial Park' in Province 1.
The chief executive of Investment Board Nepal (IBN) Maha Prasad Adhikari and the chairman of DCIPPL, Govinda Bahadur Thapa signed the MoU amid a ceremony held in the capital today.
The industrial park – located at Damak in Jhapa district – is going to be built with a total investment of around Rs 64 billion from Chinese investor Lhasa Economic and Technology Development Zone Jing-Ping Joint Creation Construction Project Development Co Ltd.
Spread over an area of 1,600 hectares, the industrial park will be built in public-private partnership (PPP) model, according to the IBN. “The government has already completed the process of land acquisition to construct the park. The construction will start as soon as the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for construction, operation and management of the industrial park is presented followed by the Project Development Agreement (PDA), the board informed, adding that the park will be spread over Gauradaha municipality, Kamal rural municipality and Damak municipality of Jhapa. “The project is the first one in Nepal supported under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) of China.”
The project is expected to add a new dimension in sectors like expansion of investment between Nepal and China and infrastructure development. The project is also expected to contribute to the expansion of physical infrastructure, fulfill local demand, and support export promotion, according to vice mayor of Lhasa Municipal People's Government Liu Guang Min.
Speaking on the occasion of MoU signing, Liu said that the industrial park will contribute toward employment generation and socio-economic development of Nepal.
Likewise, chairman of the industrial park Govinda Thapa said that the construction work of the project will present a model of efficiency and transparency. “The project will establish a new model of development in Nepal,” he said, adding that the project will give us a model that the entire country and the people can be proud of.
Likewise, Adhikari, on the occasion, said that the construction of the industrial park will contribute to the development of Nepal. Chairman of the Industrial Area Development Limited Nanda Kishor Basnet said that the project will be Nepal's model project. “Nepal did not have projects other than hydropower projects in PPP model,” he said adding that that it would be Nepal's first non-hydro project under PPP model.
The signing of the MoU precedes the visit of Chinese president Xi Jinping that is scheduled for next week.
Though the government has approved Chinese investment of Rs 64 billion to construct Nepal-China Friendship Industrial Park, the construction work is still unsure as the landlords are not in consensus about the use of their lands.
Some of the landlords have not accepted the compensation amount stating that the amount is too low.
According to Industrial Area Development Limited, some 117 landlords have received Rs 120.7 million till now. The compensation has been distributed according to the recommendation from a committee formed under the coordination of the Chief District Officer (CDO).
The District Administration Office has classified the land into three category: cultivable land, riverside land and land occupied by bushes. Compensation of Rs 2.2 million has been approved for a bigha of cultivable land, Rs 800,000 for land occupied by bushes, and Rs 200,000 for riverside land. The government has provided Rs 430.44 million for compensation distribution.
The government has distributed the compensation to the landlords of Damak Municipality, Gauradaha Municipality, and Kamal Rural Municipality. However, landlords of 61 units of land have not been identified.
Basnet said that the construction work will begin by mid-December in 500 bigha land of Jharka in Kamal-7. However, the landlords of Kamal-7 have suspected the government's intention and blaming that it is a ploy to capture their land. “No paper has mentioned that the land is taken for the establishment of the Industrial Park, they blamed, adding that it might be a strategy of the government to buy the land for cheap. The landlords have also claimed that the recommended compensation amount is less the government valuation of their land. “A compensation of Rs 200,000 per bigha is recommended,” they said, adding, “However, government rate is Rs 700,000 per bigha.
Basnet, however, claimed that the compensation amount has been decided according to the Land Acquisition Act.

Nepal, China to implement past pacts

Kathmandu and Beijing have agreed to implement agreements and understandings reached between the two neighbours in the past, and underscored the importance of exchange of high-level visits on a regular basis to develop mutual trust and confidence.
During the meeting between the foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali and state councilor and minister of Foreign Affairs of China Wang Yi, they also reviewed all important aspects of bilateral relations, according to a press note issued by the Foreign Ministry today. “They expressed satisfaction over the expanding and deepening relations between Nepal and China in recent years and agreed to further promote co-operation in various areas of mutual interest,” it reads, adding that they also agreed to continue cooperation in regional and multilateral forums on matters of mutual interests. “Gyawali appreciated China’s continued support for Nepal’s socio-economic development and underlined the need of strengthening cooperation in the fields of connectivity, infrastructure, energy and education.”
In his reply, Wang assured Gyawali of Chinese support to Nepal’s development endeavours.
During delegation-level bilateral talks between them, the two sides also exchanged substantive views on promoting bilateral economic cooperation with special focus on trade, investment and tourism.
Following bilateral talks, the two ministers witnessed signing of two letters of exchange and a memorandum of understanding (MoU). The letters of exchange are related to Hospital Recovery Project in Manang for which the Chinese side has pledged around Rs 350 million and 5,000 units of emergency shelter tents.
Likewise, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Volunteer Chinese Teachers’ Programme in Nepal has also been inked between the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Kathmandu.
According to the agreement China will provide volunteers to teach Chinese language in Nepali schools.
Wang also paid courtesy calls today on President Bidhya Devi Bhandari and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. During the meeting between Oli and Wang, the visiting minister expressed his commitment to elevating Nepal-China relations to new heights by implementing agreements reached between the two sides during Oli’s last visit to Beijing.
In the evening, Gyawali hosted a welcome dinner in honour of visiting counterpart and his delegation.
Wang, who arrived in Kathmandu yesterday evening, will meet Nepal Communist Party (NCP) co-chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal and Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba.
The visit of Chinese foreign minister has also ensured the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping in the near future, according to a high level official at the Foreign Ministry.

Nepal expects more Chinese investment : NCP chair Dahal

Chairperson of the ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP) Pushpa Kamal Dahal has urged China to invest in Nepal.
Addressing second Nepal-China Economic and Trade Cooperation Forum 2019 – organised jointly by Embassy of Nepal in China and the Economic Joint Committee of China Commercial Stock Enterprises (EJCCCSE) – chairperson Dahal explained that Nepal boasts an investment-friendly atmosphere following political stability. “Nepal and Nepalis are expecting Chinese government, traders and investors to invest in Nepal as the country is in a campaign of socio-economic transformation,” he said, reiterating Nepal’s stand on One-China policy. “We are committed not to allow Nepali land against China.”
Speaking at the occasion, vice president Nanda Bahadur Pun stressed on the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model that could help Nepal and China to develop infrastructure in Nepal. “We have adopted a policy of receiving FDI and have prioritised transportation and connectivity in which investors can invest,” he said, adding that Nepal is ready to carry out such projects in PPP model.
The programme also witnessed the chief ministers from seven provinces, leaders of various political parties and entrepreneurs.
The chief ministers, on the occasion, pitched investment prospects of their respective provinces to Chinese investors. Chief ministers of Province 1, Province 3, Gandaki, Province 5, Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces highlighted possible areas of investments in their respective provinces. They also highlighted projects related to agriculture, tourism, industry and hydropower projects in the provinces.
The chief minister of Province 3 Dor Mani Poudel, on the occasion, said that Nepal has emerged as a developing economy and one of the best countries to invest in. “Nepal encourages FDI both as joint venture operations with Nepali investors or as 100 per cent foreign-owned enterprises and public-private partnership as well,” he said, adding that Investment Board Nepal headed by the Prime Minister himself will facilitate the investors with all the help they need.
Speaking on the occasion, Nepali ambassador to China Leelamani Poudel informed the potential investors that Nepali Embassy has been discussion time and again on issues like policy continuity, simplified and well defined procedures and one-door system, hassle-free investment environment, predictable policy and legal regimes.
Likewise, deputy secretary general at EJCCCSE, Li Xuesong, on the occasion, talked about the possibility of establishing an industrial park in Chitwan. “We will introduce small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to the international business center and open the market of Nepal and South Asia to the world,” he said, adding that establishment of industrial park is a necessity as Nepal’s industrial infrastructure is weak.
On the occasion, industry minister Matrika Prasad Yadav pledged all possible support of the government to projects like establishment of industrial park.
Likewise, tourism minister Yogesh Bhattarai, on the occasion, requested Chinese tourists to make Nepal a preferred destination for their major holidays.
The second edition of the forum has been organised with an aim of increasing Chinese investments in Nepal. Some 50 Chinese investors as well as chief ministers, and ministers participated in the programme. The first edition took place in Beijing in April during President Bidhya Devi Bhandari’s state visit to China.

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi to visit Nepal

The Foreign Ministry today confirmed the two-day official visit of Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi.
Issuing a press note today, the ministry said the State Councillor and Minister for Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China Wang Yi is scheduled to visit Nepal from September 8 to September 10.
During Wang Yi’s stay in Nepal, he will call on President Bidya Devi Bhandari and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister will also hold delegation-level bilateral talks with his Nepali counterpart Pradeep Kumar Gyawali on Monday, the note reads adding that the three-day visit is also expected to pave way for the visit of President Xi Jinping to Nepal and possible agreements between the two countries under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
President Bidya Devi Bhandari during her visit to China in April – to address the second BRI Forum for International Cooperation held in Beijing – had extended invitation to Chinese President Xi to visit Nepal.  President Xi had expressed his willingness to visit Nepal at his convenient time. The Chinese President Xi is expected to visit Kathmandu in the course of his five-day state visit to India beginning from October 11.

China agrees to designate eight new destinations for Nepali airlines

Though, the northern neighbour has not yet allowed Nepali aircraft to fly to its cities till date, China has again agreed to designate eight new destinations for Nepali airlines, in addition of existing seven.
According to a press release issued by Embassy of Nepal in Beijing, both the countries today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) ensuring Nepali aircraft to fly to eight additional destinations will be specified by Nepal at its own discretion.
According to the press release, the deal was reached during a two-day meeting between the representatives of the aeronautical authorities of Nepal and China earlier today.
Though Nepal has not been given slot to fly to China, Nepal can currently also fly its carriers to seven destinations including Beijing, Shanghai, Lhasa, Guangzhou, Kunming, Chengdu and Xi’an. China has been currently operating 56 flights to Nepal per week. The Nepali side – during the meeting – urged the Chinese side to extend necessary support and assistance to Nepali airlines to operate flights to destinations in China as currently there are no flights originating from Nepal to mainland China.
“The Chinese side responded positively and agreed to extend necessary support and facilitation to Nepali airlines," the press release reads, adding that the two sides – revising the Air Service Agreement (ASA) – also agreed to raise the frequency of flights to 98 flights per week from each country, from the existing 70 flights, according to previous agreement of last five years.
“For flights operated by China-designated airlines, some 21 out of the agreed number of frequencies will be reserved for Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA) and Pokhara Regional International Airport (PRIA), and will come into effect once those airports come into operation.”
Nepal Airlines Cooperation used to operate few flights a week before 2007. However, it discontinued because of decrease in number of aircrafts with the corporation. But Nepal and China has revised the ASA without providing any assurance of allowing Nepal Airlines Corporation to fly in Chinese skies. The Chinese aviation authority has prevented the national flag carrier from flying to Chinese cities citing ‘safety concerns’ raised by the European Union (EU).
However, the Chinese side also agreed to expedite the process of issuing authorisation of Nepal Airlines and Himalaya Airlines, which have applied to operate flights between Kathmandu to Guangzhou and Beijing. Though Chinese authorities have agreed to allow NAC to operate flights on Kathmandu-Guangzhou route, the national flag carrier will first need to meet the criteria of the safety audit to be conducted by China.
A team from Civil Aviation Administration of China will come to Kathmandu in October for the safety audit, which will determine whether NAC is permitted to operate flights to China. If NAC fails the test, it won’t be allowed to fly to Guangzhou or any other city of China.
The meeting led by joint secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Suresh Acharya and deputy director general of Civil Aviation Administration of China Bai Wenli also reached an understanding that after the development of adequate technical facilities at Gunsa Airport in Tibet, flights of Nepali airlines would be allowed to land there while circumnavigating Mt Kailash as part of the mountain flight. They also agreed to explore opportunities in the field of civil aviation between the two countries through joint collaboration. “Both the sides agreed to intensify mutual co-operation on promoting bilateral connectivity and to further utilise and expand the opportunities in the civil aviation sector between the two countries through joint collaboration,” the release reads.
China has opened Nepal as a tourist destination from 2002. Currently, Chinese tourists visiting Nepal are the second highest after Indians.