KU-North Korean officials discuss research collaboration

Kathmandu University and North Korea are in talks, exploring ways to conduct joint research in various fields. Kathmandu University officials met North Korean officials recently to carry out research studies in agriculture, information technology and hydropower, says Kathmandu University Registrar Dr Subodh Sharma.

North Korean Ambassador to Nepal Jo Yong Man had reached Dhulikhel on January 5 to attend the meeting.

 “North Koreans are experts in hydro-power,” a KU professor who attended the meeting told ApEx, adding, “We can develop Nepal’s hydropower sector with the use of their skills.” He, however, says the university has not signed any agreement with North Korea.

Kathmandu University Vice-Chancellor Dr Bhola Thapa, Registrar Sharma and Dean of School of Engineering Manish Pokharel were among those present at the program.

Similarly, North Korean Ambassador and Deputy Chief of Mission Jonghyuk Kim had attended the program from the North Korean side.

The United Nations Security Council has imposed sanctions on North Korea. As a UN member state, Nepal has also banned trade with North Korea at the request of the United Nations since 22 December 2019.

Moreover, the Nepal government has shut down hospitals, restaurants and software companies being operated by North Korean nationals.