The Prime Minister addressed concerns about rumors of a debt trap, urging people not to be swayed by baseless speculation….reports Asian Lite News
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has emphasized that his upcoming official visit to China, starting December 2, will not include any agreements on loans. Speaking at a discussion with former prime ministers and foreign ministers, Oli clarified that the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is not a loan-related project and that decisions on loans or grants from any country will always be based on Nepal’s national interests.
The Prime Minister addressed concerns about rumors of a debt trap, urging people not to be swayed by baseless speculation. “We will take loans or grants when necessary, prioritizing Nepal’s sovereignty, independence, and welfare,” he asserted. Oli highlighted Nepal’s long-standing friendship with China, stating that his visit aims to further strengthen this bond. He assured attendees that the visit would prioritize Nepal’s interests, emphasizing the importance of cooperation for economic development.
Oli also noted that the visit would focus on implementing past agreements with China, expanding transmission lines, and enhancing trade by exporting Nepali products. He reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to maintaining strong relations with both its neighbors, China and India, and stressed leveraging these ties for the country’s progress. “Our diplomatic engagements will not serve as a card against any country but will align with Nepal’s needs and decisions,” he said.
Former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ echoed the sentiment, recalling his own precedent of visiting China first during his tenure. He clarified that this was not intended to play the “China card” and advised Oli to avoid using external relations for domestic political purposes. Prachanda also stressed the need for effective implementation of previous agreements with China.
Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba dismissed media reports of disputes between the ruling CPN (UML) and Nepali Congress regarding the visit’s agenda. She assured that the agenda would be finalized soon, underscoring the collaborative efforts of both parties.
The meeting was attended by prominent political figures, including former Prime Ministers Jhal Nath Khanal, Madhav Kumar Nepal, and Khilraj Regmi, as well as several former foreign ministers. Notably, Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba was absent due to being outside Kathmandu.
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