KATHMANDU: Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Zhang Maoming paid a courtesy call on Minister for Infrastructure Development Sunil Lamsal.
During the meeting at the Ministry in Singha Durbar, Minister Lamsal requested China’s support for reconstructing and developing infrastructure damaged by floods in Rasuwa and for resuming operations at the Rasuwagadhi–Kerung border transit point.
Minister Lamsal said around 600,000 Nepali citizens depend on the border points for connectivity and the smooth movement of people and goods. He also called for necessary coordination from the Chinese government to ensure the effective operation of the Korala and Tatopani border crossings.
“Rasuwagadhi, Nepal’s main trade point, has been closed since the Bhotekoshi River flood on August 26. The Nepali government is working day and night to provide relief to local residents and maintain transportation by using temporary roads and routes from the old location,” he said.
Lamsal said Chinese support was necessary to immediately restore the road section from Syaphrubesi to Rasuwagadhi and requested assistance in making the route operational.
He also said the government has initiated preparations for a new detailed project report (DPR) for the long-term development of road infrastructure connecting Kathmandu with Rasuwagadhi and Kerung. The government is also working to open tracks where necessary, he said.
The minister requested China’s support and coordination for these efforts.
During the meeting, Ambassador Maoming said China considers Nepal a close friend and neighbour and is ready to provide all possible support.
He said a detailed study should be conducted for the reconstruction and reopening of Rasuwagadhi, one of Nepal’s major commercial transit points, with the aim of developing resilient and efficient infrastructure.
Ambassador Maoming also said the Chinese government is positive about the operation of the Korala and Tatopani border transit points. According to Minister Lamsal’s secretariat, he expressed a commitment to initiate necessary coordination and provide support if the Nepali government submits a specific proposal for the reconstruction and reopening of Rasuwagadhi.
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