Baitadi: Industry, Commerce and Supplies Minister Damodar Bhandari stated that Nepal has objections regarding the agreement between India and China to establish a trade route at Lipulek. During a greeting exchange for the Gaura festival and interactions with party cadres in his home district, Minister Bhandari expressed his opposition to the agreement between China and India to create a trade route in Nepal’s sovereign territory at Lipulek.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, currently on a visit to China, has discussed the matter with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Minister Bhandari expressed confidence that China will cooperate on this issue. Following the visit to China, the Prime Minister is expected to visit India, and Minister Bhandari noted that the issue will remain a priority there as well.
In addition, Minister Bhandari mentioned plans to construct a motorable bridge at the Jhulaghat border with India and to advance the Pancheshwar project. He highlighted that discussions have been held on the Integrated Mahakali Treaty and the Pancheshwar project, emphasizing the importance of India’s consent for implementation.
Minister Bhandari also prioritized topics such as Dodhara Chandani Dry Port and Mahakali Corridor and shared his commitment to the overall development of Baitadi district.