In a significant move to bolster bilateral ties, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Tuesday, pledging to advance the strategic partnership of cooperation between China and Nepal.
During the meeting, President Xi expressed appreciation for Prime Minister Oli’s longstanding commitment to fostering friendship between the two neighbors. “China and Nepal, linked by the same mountains and rivers, are good neighbors, good friends, and good partners,” Xi said, noting that bilateral relations have maintained sound and steady development.
As the two countries approach the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year, Xi emphasized China’s placement of Nepal in an important position within its neighborhood diplomacy. He expressed China’s willingness to work with Nepal to consolidate traditional friendship and push for new progress in advancing the China-Nepal strategic partnership featuring everlasting friendship for development and prosperity.
Xi reiterated China’s respect for Nepal’s choice of development path in line with its national conditions and its support for Nepal in safeguarding national independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. He pledged to consolidate strategic mutual trust with Nepal and continue mutual support on issues concerning each other’s core interests.
The Chinese president highlighted the desire to deepen practical cooperation, promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and enhance connectivity in areas such as ports, transportation, power grids, and communications. “China is ready to provide assistance for Nepal’s economic and social development within its capacity and encourage Chinese enterprises to invest and do business in Nepal,” Xi stated.
In support of Nepal’s “Visit Nepal Year in China” initiative for 2025, Xi welcomed Nepali people to conduct business, travel, and study in China. He also called for strengthened coordination and cooperation to safeguard the common interests of developing countries.
Prime Minister Oli hailed the strong foundation of Nepal-China relations, based on friendship, equality, and respect. He affirmed Nepal’s readiness to continue participating in Belt and Road cooperation and to deepen practical cooperation in various fields.
“Nepal firmly adheres to the one-China principle,” Oli said, vowing not to allow any forces to use Nepal’s territory to engage in activities that harm China’s interests. “We oppose any foreign interference in China’s internal affairs,” he added.
Oli also pledged to enhance multilateral collaboration with China to safeguard the common interests of the Global South.
The meeting concluded with the signing of a joint statement between the two sides, further solidifying the commitment to their strategic partnership.
Reference(s):
Xi calls for advancing strategic partnership of cooperation with Nepal
cgtn.com
