KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has said that his four-day visit to India was a complete success and it has added a new brick to Nepal’s economic prosperity and development process.
Speaking to Nepali journalists in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, he emphasized the importance of the agreements and MoUs reached during his visit, stating that they were crucial in advancing the interests of the entire country.
He assured that the discussions were done with the utmost consideration for Nepal’s well-being.
“The visit has been highly productive in a unique way. The agreement concerning trade and energy represents a significant breakthrough, fulfilling a long-standing aspiration,” he stated.
Prime Minister Dahal also said that this type of agreement will help bring in large investments in Nepal’s energy sector.
Prime Minister Dahal also emphasized the potential for significant investments in Nepal’s energy sector as a result of this agreement.
He highlighted the substantial nature of India’s commitment to import 10,000 MW of electricity over the next decade.
The Prime Minister cited successful examples of ongoing projects, such as the 900 MW Arun III being constructed by the Indian company Sutlej in Sankhuwasabha, as well as the Lower Arun, which has been entrusted to the same company.
He expressed satisfaction with these projects, considering them as evidence of progress.
Expressing his delight, Prime Minister Dahal underscored the newfound trust and foundation established through the power trade agreement, responding to the demands raised by the private sector.
He stated that this agreement has created an environment enabling Nepal to export 1,200 MW of electricity to India, generated from the Upper Tamakoshi Hydropower Project.
Additionally, it was agreed that India would purchase electricity from any company selected through global bidding.
An agreement has also been reached regarding the transfer of electricity from Nepal to Bangladesh.
Initially, Bangladesh will receive 50 megawatts of electricity, utilizing Indian infrastructure for the purpose.
The Prime Minister viewed this as a tripartite agreement between Nepal, India, and Bangladesh.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Dahal mentioned that they have agreed to advance the Pancheswar multi-purpose project in line with the spirit of the Mahakali Treaty.
Despite prolonged discussions in previous Prime Ministers’ visits to India, this agreement signifies progress towards its implementation.
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