DPM Shrestha urges increased China-Nepal flights

July 1, Kathmandu: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Narayan Kaji Shrestha, currently on an official visit to the People’s Republic of China, has called on the Chinese authorities to increase the number of flights to Nepal.

During his meeting with the Chairperson of Sichuan Airlines on Friday, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the need to expand the Chengdu-Kathmandu route and establish regular flights connecting Chengdu with Pokhara and Bhairahawa airports.

Stressing the significance of enhanced air connectivity between the two nations, Shrestha expressed his belief that such a development would deepen bilateral ties.

He highlighted the recent introduction of direct flights between Chengdu and Kathmandu, which replaced the previous Chengdu-Lhasa-Kathmandu route. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that augmenting the number of flights on the Chengdu-Kathmandu route and regularizing flights to Bhairahawa and Pokhara would further strengthen the relationship between China and Nepal.

Shrestha utilized the occasion to underscore Nepal’s focus on the tourism industry and agriculture and water resources. He expressed optimism that improved air connectivity would increase the number of Chinese tourists visiting Nepal.

In response, representatives from Sichuan Province acknowledged the recent chartered flight taken by National Assembly Chairperson Ganesh Prasad Timilsina from Chengdu to Pokhara Airport via Sichuan Airlines. They expressed readiness to expand their airline markets, reflecting their willingness to collaborate on increasing flights between the two countries.

Furthermore, Deputy Prime Minister Shrestha emphasized the favourable investment climate in Nepal and urged Chinese investors to consider the country’s potential. Addressing a meeting with the provincial investors’ group in Sichuan, China, he highlighted the policy and procedural reforms undertaken by Nepal to facilitate investment. Shrestha encouraged Chinese investors to have confidence in Nepal and explore opportunities in energy, agriculture, tourism, and information technology.

Overall, the Deputy Prime Minister’s visit to China has focused on bolstering air connectivity between the two countries and attracting Chinese investment in Nepal’s key sectors. These efforts aim to strengthen bilateral cooperation and foster economic growth for both nations. RSS