China has agreed to reopen all 14 border points

KATHMANDU: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Narayan Kaji Shrestha has claimed that China has agreed to open all border points that were closed as part of measures to contain the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Talking to reporters upon his arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu after wrapping up his nine-day visit to the northern neighbor on Monday, Shrestha said Beijing has agreed to open 14 traditional trade points along the Nepal-China border. “China has agreed to reopen all 14 trade points. This will help in improving the livelihood of Nepalis living in border areas and facilitate bilateral trade,” he added.

China has opened Rasuwagadhi, Tatopani, Simikot and Korala border points so far.

“The Chinese side is also positive about forming a foreign minister-level joint commission to hold regular discussions on different aspects of bilateral relations,” he said, adding that the two sides also held a discussion about giving final shape to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) implementation plan.

Shrestha also said that China has responded positively to Nepal’s request to provide free visas for Nepalis visiting China. “China has also responded positively to Nepal’s request to allow people living in border areas to cross the border for livestock grazing and help in electrification in bordering Nepali villages as per the agreement reached in 2012,” Shrestha added. “Likewise, China has become positive to open multi-functional laboratories in some border points.”

Both sides have agreed to operate more flights between the two countries, he added.

Shrestha left for Beijing for a nine-day visit last Sunday.