KATHMANDU: On Wednesday, Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Physical Infrastructure and Transport, and Urban Development, Kulman Ghising, held a courtesy meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song.

The meeting took place at the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport in Singha Durbar, where Ambassador Chen congratulated the newly appointed Minister Ghising and wished him a successful tenure.

Discussions focused on Nepal–China road and electricity transmission connectivity, progress of road and power projects contracted to Chinese construction firms, cooperation in the energy sector, implementation status of projects funded with Chinese assistance, and potential Chinese investments in Nepal.

Minister Ghising highlighted the strategic importance of the Kathmandu–Kodari (Araniko) and Syafrubesi–Rasuwagadhi roads, noting that their vulnerability to landslides and fragile geography requires Chinese technological assistance for permanent maintenance and safe operation.

He also urged immediate commencement of the Kalanki–Basundhara section under Chinese grant support as part of the Kathmandu Valley Ring Road expansion.

Regarding energy projects, Ghising requested support for constructing an additional cross-border transmission line from Kimathanka to enhance Nepal’s electricity market competitiveness, citing ongoing hydro projects along the Arun River corridor.

He also sought Chinese facilitation to accelerate construction of Kamala–Kanchanpur and road expansions from Narayangadh–Butwal and Muglin–Pokhara, noting delays in progress.

Ambassador Chen affirmed China’s readiness to support Nepal in priority sectors.

The meeting included participation from Ministry Secretary Keshav Kumar Sharma, Development Assistance Coordination and Quality Division Chief Sushil Babu Dhakal, Department of Roads Director-General Bijay Jaishi, and Under Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Northeast Asia Division, Manhari Dangal.