Stakeholders, including political leaders and scholars, have emphasized the importance of timely implementation of projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to advance Nepal's development and achieve the vision of "Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali."
The discussion on this topic was held after the signing of the BRI cooperation framework during Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's visit to China in December.
Stakeholders highlighted the transformative potential of BRI projects at a program titled “Advancing Nepal-China Cooperation after the Prime Minister's Visit to China,” organized in Kathmandu jointly by the Nepal-China Friendship Forum, Madan Bhandari Foundation, and Girija Prasad Koirala Foundation for Democracy Peace and Development.
Speakers underlined the need to prioritize connectivity networks, which they argued would ensure seamless supply chains and bolster the economic partnership between Nepal and China. They called for Nepal to explore opportunities in trade, infrastructure, cultural exchange, and regional connectivity under the BRI framework.
Former Foreign Minister and Nepali Congress leader Sujata Koirala described the BRI as an ambitious vision for shared prosperity, extending beyond infrastructure. "The BRI fosters connectivity, enhances trade routes, and promotes cultural exchanges. For Nepal, with its rich cultural heritage and natural resources, this initiative offers an extraordinary opportunity to propel development while ensuring sustainability," said Koirala, who chairs the Girija Prasad Koirala Foundation. She stressed the importance of timely implementation of agreements to deepen mutual trust and expand cooperation.
CPN (UML) leader Bishnu Rijal echoed Koirala’s sentiments, emphasizing that the BRI cooperation framework was built on national consensus. He identified the Trans-Himalayan Multidimensional Connectivity Network and cross-border transmission line development as key projects requiring urgent progress.
Deputy Chief of Mission at the Chinese Embassy in Nepal, Wang Xin, urged stakeholders to view the BRI as a win-win partnership rather than a subject of controversy. Similarly, Prof. Lin Minwang of Fudan University and Prof. Huang Yunsong of Sichuan University encouraged Nepal and China to advance BRI projects while avoiding geopolitical influences. Both professors stressed the need for comprehensive connectivity and scientific project management to maximize benefits.
Dr Kalyan Raj Sharma, chairman of the Nepal-China Friendship Forum, highlighted the potential for Nepal and China to drive prosperity through investments in socio-economic development, infrastructure, market integration, and people-to-people ties. He noted that recent collaborations with China had already delivered transformative results.
The event was attended by policymakers, academicians, diplomats, industry experts, university professors, rights activists, and other stakeholders. -- RSS
