Mar 13, Kathmandu: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Physical Infrastructure and Transport Narayankaji Shrestha and Council for the Promotion of International Vice President Trade Zhang Shaogang which is the umbrella organization of the Chinese government for foreign investment had a courtesy meeting at the ministry on Monday.

During the meeting, the issues of trade and investment partnerships were discussed. While welcoming Vice President Zhang to Nepal and wishing him a successful visit. Deputy Prime Minister Shrestha said that China is Nepal's second-largest international trade partner and that Chinese investment will always be welcomed as Nepal has an investment-friendly environment.

Deputy Prime Minister Shrestha pointed out the need to facilitate import and export by organizing the Kerung and Tatopani border crossings. He pointed out that China is Nepal's second trading partner and since the trade deficit between China and Nepal is large, it is necessary to proceed on the basis of mutual understanding to reduce it.

Shrestha reiterated Nepal's determination toward the one-China policy. Congratulating Chinese President Xi Jinping and newly elected Prime Minister Li Qiang, who was elected for the third term, he also wished them a successful term.

In that regard, Vice President Zhang said that although the nearly four-year-long covid infection affected China's foreign investment and trade, it was easier because China is now free from covid. He said that due to covid, there was no exchange of visits between China and Nepal and it also affected business. He said that Nepal is an old and close friend of his and the purpose of his visit is to ensure more investment in Nepal.

Zhang said that China will openly support Nepal's idea of large-scale technological industry-building. Chinese official of the deputy minister level, Zhang, along with the Chinese ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song, came for the courtesy meeting.