KATHMANDU: The 16th Meeting of the Diplomatic Consultation Mechanism (DCM) between Nepal's and China's Ministries of Foreign Affairs was held in Kathmandu, where both parties examined their bilateral relations in detail. The conference, chaired by Nepal's Foreign Secretary Sewa Lamsal and China's Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Sun Weidong, examined progress in executing previously negotiated agreements, Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), and decisions.

Both delegations made a firm commitment during the conference to strengthening collaboration in areas that have been mutually agreed upon, with the goal of taking advantage of economic prospects for mutual gain. According to a release from Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, they emphasized the timeless values of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, Panchsheel, mutual trust, kindness, and understanding as the cornerstones of Nepal-China ties.

China's dedication to strengthening development cooperation was recognized by Foreign Secretary Lamsal, especially in light of Nepal's preparations for its LDC graduation in 2026. Vice Minister Sun thanked Nepal for adhering to the One-China Policy. The planning for China's 'Visit Nepal Year' in 2025, in particular, concentrated on methods to improve trade, investment, connectivity, infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism. Discussions also centered on maintaining the tradition of state visits.

It was decided by both parties to hold special events and programs to mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025. They emphasized the need to create new bilateral institutions and to revitalize the ones that already exist, such as a Joint Commission made up of foreign ministers.

Participating actively was the Nepali delegation, which included joint secretary and head of the North East Asia division Krishna Prasad Dhakal as well as officials from pertinent ministries and agencies. A fruitful conversation was held by the Chinese group, which included representatives from China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Embassy in Kathmandu, led by Ambassador Chen Song.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha, as well as President Ram Chandra Paudel, were also paid courtesy calls by Vice Minister Sun prior to the meeting. Vice Minister Sun will be in Kathmandu from Monday to Wednesday before leaving for Beijing.