Thorough discussion must for BRI implementation, says foreign minister

KATHMANDU: Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Arzu Rana Deuba has said that the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) agreement with China cannot be implemented without holding extensive discussions.

Speaking at a meeting of the International Relations and Tourism Committee of the House of Representatives on Wednesday, Rana said detailed discussions about the BRI implementation plan are still pending. She expressed confidence that Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli would play a crucial role in bringing the project up for comprehensive discussions to facilitate its early implementation.

“After internal discussions on how to proceed with BRI implementation, we will hold detailed discussions in parliament and parliamentary committees as well as other relevant forums before moving forward,” she added.

Referring to the extensive parliamentary discussions held before approving the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) assistance, Rana said necessary consultations should be held with all parties when implementing agreements made with various countries.