Nepal and China Forge Agreements for Human Resources Development and Enhanced Healthcare Services

KATHMANDU: In a significant step towards bilateral cooperation, Nepal and China have inked two pivotal agreements focusing on human resources development and the enhancement of bone marrow transplantation services.

The signing ceremony, held at the Ministry of Finance and graced by Finance Minister Barshaman Pun, saw the formalization of these crucial agreements aimed at bolstering collaboration between the two nations.

The first agreement, pertaining to human resources development cooperation for global development initiatives, was signed by Finance Secretary Madhu Kumar Marasini and Chairman of the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), Luo Zhaohui, representing their respective governments.

Additionally, a second agreement focused on advancing bone marrow transplant services was signed by Health Secretary Dr. Roshan Pokharel and Luo Zhaohui of CIDCA.

CIDCA, instrumental in shaping China’s foreign aid strategy standards, policy planning, and foreign aid reform agenda, has pledged support for Nepal’s healthcare sector, particularly in establishing bone marrow transplant services. This commitment stems from China’s promise during Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal’s visit to China in September 2023.

Per the agreement, China will extend financial assistance to BP Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital to facilitate the operation of bone marrow transplant services, marking a significant stride in Nepal’s healthcare infrastructure development.

Expressing gratitude for China’s continued support in Nepal’s development journey, Finance Minister Pun underscored the deep-rooted and enduring friendship between the two nations. He expressed optimism for further cooperation and emphasized the need to implement remaining bilateral agreements to maximize mutual benefits.

Echoing Minister Pun’s sentiments, CIDCA’s Luo Zhaohui reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Nepal’s development initiatives. He pledged to implement every aspect of agreements signed during high-level visits, highlighting the significance of the ongoing Third International Investment Summit in fostering increased Chinese investment in Nepal.

As Nepal and China deepen their partnership across various sectors, these agreements stand as testament to the shared commitment to mutual progress and prosperity.