China inks world's most ambitious rail deal with Nepal
Chinese President Xi Jinping, during his visit to Nepal, said a feasibility study of the trans-Himalayan railway will soon start and China will also support the construction of the Kerung-Kathmandu tunnel road. During a state banquet hosted by Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari, Xi said, "We have model friendship in the world, and there is no issue between the two countries." President Xi said he and Bhandari agreed to develop relations, friendship and partnership that would help in development and prosperity for Nepal.
Further, the Chinese President said China will provide Rs 56 billion assistance to Kathmandu over the next two years to help Nepal's development programmes and transform the landlocked nation into a land-linked country.
During his meeting with Bhandari, President Xi announced the support of 3.5 billion RMB equivalent to NRs. 56 billion to Nepal over the next two years to help the development programmes, officials said.
Xi also pledged to upgrade the Arniko Highway linking Kathmandu with Tatopani transit point - which was shut down following the devastating earthquake of 2015 - and open more customs points facilitating connectivity.
President Xi said he and Bhandari agreed to develop relations, friendship and partnership that would help in development and prosperity for Nepal.
More reliable and easier connectivity facility between the two countries would be constructed in the near future, he said.
"We want to support Nepal in realising its dream to become a land-linked country from the landlocked country," the Chinese president said.
He said China will provide further support in the post-quake reconstruction, promoting 'Visit Nepal Year 2020', support education sector and urban development in the country.
On her part, Bhandari reiterated Nepal's commitment to 'One-China policy' and said Nepal will not allow any force to use its territory against China.
Nepal shares a long border with Tibet and is home to around 20,000 Tibetan exiles. Every year some 2,500 Tibetans illegally enter Nepal crossing Tibetan border on their way to Dharamshala to meet the 84-year-old Dalai Lama.
She appreciated China's support for Nepal's development efforts and cooperation at international platforms. She also sought China's assistance in constructing the Rasuwagadhi-Kathmandu-Lumbini railway line.
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