Kathmandu, June 19:
Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal said the government is committed to strengthening relations with both India and China, describing the two neighbours as vital partners for the Himalayan nation. Speaking at the end of a four-day visit to Beijing, Khanal said his recent trips to New Delhi and China reflected Nepal’s desire to deepen existing ties rather than balance one country against the other.
During his visit, Khanal held talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and other senior Chinese leaders on issues including connectivity, border management, trade, technology transfer and multilateral cooperation. He reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to the One-China policy and pledged that Nepal would not allow its territory to be used against Chinese interests.
Khanal also highlighted infrastructure and connectivity as priorities, including the proposed Trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network and a cross-border railway project. Nepal expects to receive the Chinese feasibility study for the railway later this month, which will guide future cooperation on transport and border infrastructure.