KATHMANDU: Prime Minister (PM) KP Oli has announced that there will be no loan agreement during his official visit to China, which begins on December 2.
In a discussion today with former prime ministers and foreign ministers about the upcoming trip, Prime Minister Oli emphasized that the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is not a loan project.
He also noted that borrowing from China is not a contentious issue.
“If necessary, we can secure loans or grants from any country or agency based on national interest,” he stated.
“We should not entertain unfounded rumors suggesting that loans are being taken to ensnare us in debt. We have a long-standing and amicable relationship with China. This visit aims to deepen the friendship between our two countries.”
PM Oli also highlighted his equally friendly relations with India, stressing the importance of leveraging these connections to enhance Nepal’s economic development.
The Prime Minister reiterated that the sovereignty of Nepal remains paramount, regardless of which country is visited first.
“No matter which country we visit first, we will prioritize the sovereignty, independence, and freedom of our nation, alongside our international interests,” he remarked.
“That is why this visit will be successful. There is no reason to sow confusion about any disputes between the Nepali Congress and the UML regarding this trip. Our focus will remain on promoting world peace and advancing the interests of Nepal.”
PM Oli informed attendees that preparations for the visit to China include efforts to effectively implement past agreements and discuss the expansion of transmission lines, the export of Nepali products to China, and other cooperative initiatives.
He urged that no one should use these matters as a “card” against any nation, affirming that the official visit of Nepal’s Chief Executive will be grounded in the nation’s needs and decisions.
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