16th Nepal-China Diplomatic Consultation Mechanism Meeting Focuses on Bilateral Relations and Cooperation

The 16th Meeting of the Diplomatic Consultation Mechanism (DCM) between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Nepal and China was held in Kathmandu on Tuesday, where both nations reviewed their bilateral relations and assessed the progress on previously signed agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).

Foreign Secretary Sewa Lamsal led the Nepali delegation, while the Chinese delegation was headed by Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sun Weidong. The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both countries to enhance cooperation in mutually agreed areas and work towards realizing economic opportunities for mutual benefits.

Both delegations reiterated that the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, Panchsheel, mutual trust, goodwill, and understanding continue to guide Nepal-China relations. According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Secretary Lamsal expressed gratitude for China’s commitment to enhancing development cooperation as Nepal prepares for its LDC graduation in 2026. Vice Minister Sun acknowledged Nepal’s steadfast adherence to the One-China Policy.

The meeting also emphasized the importance of maintaining regular high-level visits and discussed ways to boost cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure development, connectivity, and agriculture. Additionally, they explored promoting Nepal’s tourism prospects in China in light of the 'Visit Nepal Year in China' in 2025.

Both sides agreed to celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China with special programs and activities in 2025. They also highlighted the need to activate existing bilateral mechanisms and establish new ones, including a Joint Commission at the Foreign Ministers' level.

The Nepali delegation included Krishna Prasad Dhakal, Joint Secretary and Head of the North East Asia Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with senior officials from relevant ministries and government agencies. The Chinese delegation comprised Ambassador of China to Nepal, Chen Song, and other senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China and the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu.

Vice Minister Sun Weidong's visit to Nepal, which began on Monday, included courtesy calls on Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal. He is also scheduled to meet President Ram Chandra Paudel and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Narayan Kaji Shrestha on Wednesday. Vice Minister Sun and his delegation will return to Beijing on Wednesday.