DPM Shrestha discusses BIPPA, Pokhara airport project with Chinese counterpart

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha met his Chinese counterpart Yang Jeichi in Beijing on Tuesday, discussing a range of bilateral issues.

Narayan Kaji Shrestha

The proposed Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (BIPPA) between the two countries, construction of Pokhara international airport, West Seti hydropower project and East-west high hill road dominated the talks, reports said.

Chinese companies have already been awarded contracts of Pokhara international airport and West Seti hydel but construction remains stalled owing to controversies.

Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jeichi

During the meeting, the Chinese side was particularly inquisitive about the progress in finalising the draft of BIPP, reiterating that China wanted to sign it at the earliest. In response, Shrestha assured that the draft would be finalised soon while he praised Chinese model of attracting foreign investment.

The two also discussed the progress in the implementation of the agreements signed during Chinese premier Wen Jiabao’s Nepal visit in January.
Shrestha is also known to have urged his Chinese counterpart of set the visit of Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai to China at the earliest. Jeichi on his part said China would host the Nepali Prime Minister at a convenient time. nepalnews.com