Nepal’s Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli commenced a visit to China to strengthen infrastructure cooperation, favoring Beijing over India. Arriving in Beijing, he planned significant discussions with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, focusing on current investments and collaborative initiatives, particularly under China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

On Tuesday, Nepal’s Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli commenced an official visit to China, focusing on enhancing infrastructure collaboration between the two nations. His visit marks a departure from the customary practice of newly appointed leaders first visiting India. Arriving in Beijing on Monday evening, Prime Minister Oli is scheduled to engage in discussions with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, with activities planned through Thursday.

During the visit, both leaders are expected to have extensive discussions regarding the deepening of their longstanding friendship and expanding initiatives under China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The Deputy Secretary of Oli’s party indicated that existing investment agreements would be a focal point, particularly mentioning the recent completion of an international airport in Pokhara, a significant tourist destination.

Prime Minister Oli’s strategic positioning aims to balance Nepal’s relations with both China and India, although recent interactions reflect a shift towards China amid a lack of formal invitations from New Delhi. This was notably evidenced by discussions concerning mutual interests and collaborative prospects that may enhance Nepal’s infrastructure and economic landscape. Oli’s itinerary includes delivering a keynote speech at Peking University and participating in a bilateral business forum.

Oli’s visit occurs at a time when India’s trade constitutes approximately 65 percent of Nepal’s overall trade volume for the fiscal year 2023-24, contrasted with China’s 15 percent. Furthermore, while China’s investment in Nepal exceeds $250 million, India is the leading foreign investor in the region with an influx surpassing $750 million last year.

The diplomatic dynamics between Nepal, China, and India are complex, as Nepal seeks to diversify its economic partnerships. Historically, Nepal has leaned heavily on India for trade and investment, but recent administrations, notably under Prime Minister Oli, have explored stronger ties with China, particularly in the realm of infrastructure development. The Belt and Road Initiative is central to this relationship, aiming to enhance connectivity and economic integration. This visit represents a significant milestone in Nepal’s foreign policy as it navigates its role between two major powers.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli’s visit to China marks a pivotal moment in Nepal’s foreign relations. By prioritizing discussions on infrastructure with China, he signifies a clearer tilt towards his northern neighbor, aiming to build a robust economic framework to support Nepal’s development. As Nepal continues to balance its relationships with both China and India, such initiatives may reshape its economic landscape and strategic positioning in South Asia.

Original Source: homenewshere.com

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