On 13th September 2022, Nepal and China signed a 6-point agreement in Kathmandu. This 67-member delegation included a series of discussions, along with the signing of the agreement in question. The main highlight of the agreement included the fact that the leaders of both the countries will exchange information on the supervisory, the legislative and the governance practices that shall be carried out from time to time.
The Belt and Road Initiative is being accounted as a bold and ambitious project by China. The agreement also underlines that the two countries shall give priority to the mutual benefits of each other and promote the commitment made towards their upliftment.
The leaders of the two countries have also agreed to strengthen the cooperation between the governments and pave way for a stronger international and regional parliamentary organization foundation.
The Agreement was signed by the Parliament Speaker Agni Prasad Sapkota of Nepal and Chairman of the Standing Committee of China’s NPC, Li Zhanshu. The event was a four-day affair that included several rounds of discussions.
Experts suggest that a similar agreement was signed between the two countries 5 years back in 2017 under BRI; however, there were practically no steps taken or any progress made in the past. So, it is yet to be seen if anything actually churns out of this agreement or the whole idea is superficial disguise for certain other means and goals.
China continuously highlights its respect and support for Nepal’s territory, sovereignty and independence. The leaders of Nepal promise their support for the ‘One China’ policy where they offer assurance that no steps or measures would be taken that threaten the stability of China or cause any harm to the country in the future as well.
Nepal has extended its appreciation for the Chinese support and transportation of essentials and medical supplies in the post-pandemic times. The contribution of China towards other developmental initiatives in the country were also appreciated and given precedence in the conference.