KATHMANDU: Former Prime Minister and leader of the Communist Party of Nepal (CPN), Jhalanath Khanal, has stressed on expanding physical and digital connectivity, timely implementation of agreed development projects and increasing collaboration in science, technology and innovation to further strengthen Nepal-China relations.
Addressing a programme entitled ‘Nepal-China Relations: Expanding Horizons of Cooperation’ as part of Kasthamandap Dialogue, Series-3 that kicked off here today, Minister Khanal said Nepal should set a strategic direction of its foreign policy keeping its sovereignty and national interest at the centre. Recalling the 71st anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China, he described the Kasthamandap Dialogue as an important forum to review Nepal-China relations, debate on priorities of foreign policy and identify practical areas of future collaboration. Expressing sorrow over the people and communities affected by the recent flash floods, Khanal expressed gratitude to China for providing technical and humanitarian assistance during the time of disaster. He said that China has the role of a reliable friend to support Nepal in both times of prosperity and crisis. Stating that China has consistently expressed its support to Nepal’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, Khanal clarified that Nepal is committed to the one-China policy. “It is Nepal’s policy not to allow its territory to be used for any activities against China and its legitimate security interests,” he said. Describing mutual trust, respect for sovereignty and sensitivity towards each other’s core concerns as the fundamental aspects of Nepal-China relations, he stressed the need to further expand the Nepal-China relations on the basis of mutual interests. Referring to the changing international system, Khanal said that Nepal should seriously study the situation where China’s growing influence, importance of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), global trend to reduce dependence on the Chinese dollar and influence of world power is gradually shifting towards the Global South. He expressed the view that protection of national interest and sovereignty should be given priority while ensuring Nepal’
s strategic position in the emerging world order.
Regarding the International Development Initiative, Khanal expressed concern over the delay in the implementation of the projects under the Belt and Road Initiative while the programs under the Millennium Challenge Corporation were moving forward. He said that the agreed projects related to the Trans-Himalayan Multidimensional Connectivity Network should be implemented seriously and on time.
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