Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda of Nepal has unequivocally affirmed Nepal’s continued active participation in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Speculations regarding Nepal’s stance, particularly in relation to safeguards against debt-related challenges, have been put to rest with Prachanda’s recent statement.
Prachanda made the declaration during his visit to Hangzhou, where he attended the inaugural session of the Asian Games after flying in from New York. During his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Prachanda conveyed his government’s commitment to further promote the Trans-Himalayan network, recognizing its pivotal role in Nepal’s national economic development. This network serves as a vital component of the Belt and Road Initiative, strengthening economic ties between Nepal and China.
Notably, Prachanda’s assurances to President Xi diverged from previous speculations that he might request Beijing to undertake BRI projects in Nepal through a grant mechanism. Such an approach would alleviate concerns of Nepal falling into a debt trap as a result of these projects.
“Nepal supports a series of important concepts and initiatives put forward by President Xi and is willing to work with China to promote development of international order in a more just and reasonable direction,” stated Prachanda, as reported by the news agency Xinhua.
In his remarks, Prachanda hailed President Xi as a “visionary world leader” and reiterated Nepal’s steadfast commitment to the one-China policy. This reaffirmation underscores Nepal’s dedication to maintaining robust diplomatic relations with China.
