Submit your Article

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said maintaining national unity by building an inclusive and equitable society is their main priority.

Addressing a national women gathering organized by Federation of Democratic Indigenous Nationalities, Nepal today, Prime Minister Oli laid emphasis on effective implementation of fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution to uplift the living standard of underprivileged communities.

Also the chairperson of the CPN-UML, PM Oli stated that the UML has been giving special importance to establish rights of indigenous nationalities and all women.

He expressed determination to uplift the living standard of every nationality, to establish social justice and build an equitable society.  

Sharing that the underprivileged communities would be uplifted by providing them easy access to education and employment, Prime Minister Oli urged the indigenous nationalities to protect their traditions, art and culture.

When Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli was embarking on an official visit to China, skepticism was swirling in Nepal’s political circles. Particularly, Pushpa Kamal Dahal tried to label the visit as a ‘China card’, a characterization that was both insensitive and unjustified. Despite adversarial rhetoric and conspiracy theories, Oli’s visit proved to be a landmark, underlining his ability to advance Nepal’s national interests on the global stage.

This marked Oli’s third official visit to China as Prime Minister, and like his previous visits, it carried a profound significance. Oli’s diplomatic engagements with China have consistently focused on diversifying Nepal’s economic and development partnerships. Oli’s three visits to China as prime minister have been a grand success in protecting national interest.  

During his maiden visit to China in March 2016, Oli witnessed the signing of the Transport and Transit Agreement (TTA). This historic agreement sought to break Nepal’s dependence on India for trade and transit, symbolizing Nepal’s aspiration to evolve from a landlocked nation into a land-linked one. It laid the foundation for a more independent trade regime by granting Nepal access to Chinese seaports and overland transport routes. 

However, turning this vision into reality has proven to be a formidable task. Nepal faces significant infrastructural challenges and logistical hurdles that must be addressed to fully operationalize the agreement. Still, the signing of the pact marked a decisive step toward diversifying Nepal’s trade partners and reducing its economic vulnerability. We should understand each step of execution of every project begins with the signing of the document.  

Oli’s second visit to China in June 2018 added another layer of substance to Nepal-China relations, with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore the feasibility of a trans-Himalayan railway linking Kerung in Tibet to Kathmandu. Though there have been other significant decisions, the feasibility study of railway is one that will have a momentous impact in connectivity if it materializes. 

While this ambitious project will take more than a decade to complete, it represents a transformative vision for Nepal’s connectivity. Feasibility studies have been conducted in two phases in this regard. This time too, both the governments have iterated cross-border railway. The railway is more than just an infrastructural project as it embodies the potential to establish Nepal as a critical transit hub between China and India. Because Raxaul-Kathmandu railway is also in the line sooner than northern railway.  By connecting the two Asian giants through Nepal, the project could redefine regional trade dynamics and offer Nepal unprecedented economic opportunities. 

Oli’s third visit to China in 2024 cemented his legacy as a leader committed to deepening bilateral ties. The highlight of the visit was the signing of an implementation plan for the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), identifying 10 key projects for collaboration. This milestone marked a significant step forward in Nepal’s engagement with the BRI, which had been mired in delays and political debates since its signing in 2017. Under the projects of the BRI, both the sides have agreed ‘aid financing’ model that incorporates both the grant and concessional loan. But as the Prime Minister has clarified, Nepal will only take grants from China. Minister for Foreign Affairs Arzu Deuba Rana has shared the same statement. She further explained that there was nothing mentioned about the loans. 

By finalizing the implementation plan, Oli’s government demonstrated its ability to pilot the complexities of global geopolitics. The move cleared lingering uncertainties surrounding Nepal’s participation in the BRI and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to fostering mutually beneficial partnerships with China. However, it also underscored the need for Nepal to manage its foreign relations prudently, avoiding potential entanglements in geopolitical rivalries. Nepal has been able to convey a message to the global community that it will collaborate with all countries for development and prosperity without allowing foreign intervention in domestic affairs. 

Nepal’s foreign policy has often been characterized by a delicate balancing act between major global powers. This dynamic was evident in the interplay between the BRI and the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact with the United States. While the implementation of MCC has already begun, focusing on transmission lines and roads, the BRI has faced prolonged uncertainty.  Nepal will leave no stone unturned for receiving support of neighbors and great powers if they are genuinely offered.  The MCC, a $500m grant from the US supplemented by a $200m contribution from Nepal, has been a subject of intense political debate. The successful initiation of the BRI implementation plan during Oli’s visit signals Nepal’s intent to work with India, China, the US and other great powers on building infrastructure. Nepali leaders philosophically agreed that India and China are first priority and they should be openly called for supporting Nepal’s development. 

One of the most notable aspects of Oli’s recent visit was the unified stance adopted by Nepal’s major political parties on foreign policy matters. This consensus reflects a growing maturity among Nepali leaders in addressing international issues. By setting aside partisan differences, the political establishment demonstrated its commitment to prioritizing national interests in the realm of foreign policy. This collaborative approach has significant implications for Nepal’s diplomatic strategy. It enhances the country’s credibility as a stable partner and strengthens its bargaining position in negotiations with neighbors. Moreover, it underscores the importance of institutional continuity in foreign relations, ensuring that Nepal’s engagements with global partners are driven by long-term strategic considerations rather than short-term political calculations.

While Oli’s achievements in fostering Nepal-China relations are commendable, challenges remain. The successful implementation of agreements such as the Transport and Transit Agreement, the railway connectivity MoU and the BRI projects requires substantial financial resources, technical expertise and continued political will. Nepal must also address domestic constraints, including bureaucratic inefficiencies and infrastructural deficits, to fully capitalize on these initiatives. At the same time, opportunities are immense.  Oli has set the stage for a more confident and assertive Nepal. His efforts underscore the importance of strategic foresight and proactive diplomacy in a changing global order. After the China visit, the Prime Minister will also visit our southern neighbor. I believe, PM’s upcoming India visit would be equally fruitful. 

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has extended warm greetings and cordial felicitations to the governments and people of the member states of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) on the auspicious occasion of the fortieth anniversary of SAARC Charter Day today.

In the felicitation message, PM Oli stressed SAARC's prominent role in fostering mutual trust, understanding and cooperation among member states, and expressed firm commitments of Nepal- current SAARC Chair- to its Charters for building a peaceful, prosperous and integrated South Asia. It was mentioned in a press statement released by the Foreign Ministry today.

Highlighting persisting socioeconomic and environmental challenges including climate change and transnational organized crimes, the PM also called for revitalizing SAARC process for promoting shared interest and prosperity of the people in the regions.

Similarly, in a separate message, Minister for Foreign Affairs Arzu Rana Deuba expressed best wishes to the governments and the people of SAARC member states on this special occasion. Minister Rana acknowledged the vision of founding leaders and importance of SAARC Charter in promoting collective self-reliance, improving quality of life of people and fostering regional solidarity to address multiple challenges faced commonly by the member states.

She also underscored the need for reviving and enabling SAARC to live up to its objective including SDGs in the spirit of amity, mutual consensus enshrined in the Charter.

Dec 5, 8 am

Tinkune

When I entered the tea shop at 7:15 am, a man in his fifties was sharing his thoughts on the recent local body by-elections. He said the candidate of the Nepali Congress (NC), Devendra Pathak, lost in Kathmandu-16, despite campaigning by top party leaders like Gagan Kumar Thapa and Bishwa Prakash Sharma. Candidate of Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), Rojina Shrestha, was elected from Kathmandu-16. The man, however, was delighted about NC’s victory in Kirtipur Municipality.

In one corner of the tea shop, a man, who happened to be a former government undersecretary, seemed impatient at the conversation that painted NC in a favorable light. Turning to me, he said, “Election results don’t reflect a party’s national popularity. Local factions and dynamics play a significant role in shaping outcomes.”

The first gentleman was continuing this time about the Maoist Center’s historical dominance in Kirtipur since the insurgency era. “Many Maoist leaders sought refuge there,” he explained, emphasizing how caste and community ties continue to shape voting patterns.

The focus then shifted to RSP, with one participant arguing that its urban popularity endures. “Urban voters are less ideological,” he said. “They’re disillusioned with NC and UML. This dissatisfaction dates back to the Panchayat era and has lingered.”

The NC sympathizer acknowledged internal challenges, especially in candidate selection. “If the party selects the right candidates, it could become the largest political force in the next election,” he asserted. After some thought, he backed away from his statement, and suggested that UML’s robust grassroots organization could secure it the top spot instead.

Someone asked about voter turnout, estimated at around 60 percent. The group attributed the decline to three factors: frustration with political stagnation, the exodus of youth abroad, and apathy among younger voters, many of whom haven’t registered. I shared a related insight from my college class earlier in the week: out of 25 students, only four were registered voters, and just one had cast a ballot in the last election. A participant grimly predicted even lower turnout in 2027 as more youth leave the country.

The discussion broadened to Nepal’s leadership crisis. “Our leaders don’t read,” one participant lamented. “They lack vision and fail to devise meaningful reforms.” Another added, “Politicians surround themselves with opportunistic cadres, not experts who can offer genuine solutions.”

Corruption was another hot topic. “Chaos and corruption are rampant,” someone said. “Accountability is non-existent. Those involved must face penalties.”

As the debate on NC and UML continued, a man who worked for a government ministry weighed in with his argument. He said business people and contractors were taking over the NC, sidelining honest and intellectual individuals. “Look at the lawmakers from districts around the Kathmandu Valley—Kavre, Sindhupalchok, Dhading, most of them are contractors consolidating their influence,” he said. “We can’t expect anything positive from such leaders.”

The first gentleman who had been steering much of the earlier discussion tried to shift gears. “Politics aside, I focus on my health,” he said, his voice tinged with pride. While he didn’t disclose his age, he hinted at his good health compared to his peers. “Take care of your body. Avoid diabetes, hypertension, and aim for 80 years. Every Nepali should strive for a healthy life,” he advised.

His effort went in vain, as the conversation led to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s recent China visit and the murky agreements on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). A participant raised concerns over the term “aid financing,” questioning whether it referred to a loan or a grant. A man reading a newspaper cited former Finance Secretary Rameshwar Khanal, who described it as a concessional loan. Another voice interjected, claiming it was merely political jargon meant to confuse the public.

As I left the tea shop, I was pondering the complexity of our socio-political landscape.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s first official visit to China on Dec 2-5 after assuming office in July has garnered significant attention both domestically and internationally. Central to discussions following the visit is China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which overshadowed other bilateral issues.

A key outcome of Oli’s visit was the signing of a Framework for Belt and Road Cooperation, marking progress in Nepal’s engagement with the BRI. For the first time, 10 specific projects under the BRI were identified. These projects are divided into two categories: long-term ventures like cross-border railways and tunnel projects, which require significant investment and time, and smaller, less capital-intensive initiatives.

To finance these projects, Nepal and China agreed on an “aid financing modality,” widely interpreted by economists as concessional loans. However, details of the agreement remain undisclosed, leaving even ruling parties unclear about the specifics. Prime Minister Oli has stated that Nepal will accept grants, not loans, under the BRI framework. Upon his return, he assured: “During negotiations, the issue of loans did not arise. Implementing specific projects may require separate discussions.”

The agreement represents a breakthrough in the ongoing narrative that BRI had stagnated in Nepal since the first framework agreement in 2017. Critics had attributed the delay to geopolitical factors, including external pressures. Following Nepal's endorsement of the US-backed Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) in 2022, China had been eager to advance the BRI, questioning why Nepal accepted the MCC but hesitated on the BRI. The new agreement allows China to showcase progress, countering claims of inactivity.

For Oli, the deal offers a political advantage. He faced pressure from within his party, particularly senior leaders like former President Bidya Devi Bhandari, to demonstrate progress on the BRI. The agreement has been welcomed by many leaders in Oli’s party, CPN-UML, and is likely to gain support from the CPN (Maoist Center) as well, though its Chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal may downplay the achievement.

The timing of the agreement is notable. In 2023, an implementation plan was nearly finalized under Dahal’s premiership, but he deferred the matter during his visit to China. Fringe communist parties, ideologically aligned with Beijing, have also expressed support for the deal. Notably, Oli’s previous tenure in 2016 saw the historic signing of the Transit and Transport Agreement with China to diversify Nepal’s trade and transit options, cementing his reputation as a leader seeking stronger ties with Beijing.

Foreign policy analysts argue that endorsing the BRI after the MCC helps Nepal maintain geopolitical balance. Internally, the deal has helped avert potential friction between the Nepali Congress (NC) and UML. Oli managed to secure Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba’s backing, unlike Dahal, who failed to involve Narayan Kaji Shrestha from his party during earlier BRI discussions.

However, critics describe the agreement as more symbolic than substantive. The NC, a key coalition partner in the Oli-led government, has expressed concerns over its alignment with prior consensus. Former Foreign Minister NP Saud noted that the agreement contradicts the party’s stance to accept only grants under the BRI. He warned that this issue could escalate within the party. Similarly, NC leader Nain Singh Mahar stated that the deal diverges from the party’s position. The government is now under pressure to disclose the agreement's details to address these concerns.

Soon after his return, Oli met with a task force formed to build consensus between the NC and UML on the deal. The meeting aimed to preemptively address dissatisfaction within the coalition, as some NC leaders opposed to the BRI may leverage the issue politically.

Beyond the BRI, Oli’s visit emphasized implementing past agreements rather than signing new ones, aligning with long-standing Chinese priorities. While some expected Prime Minister Oli to negotiate a loan waiver for the Pokhara International Airport, he clarified that no such discussions occurred. Nine agreements were signed during the visit, accompanied by a joint press statement.

Chinese media highlighted the significance of Oli choosing China for his first bilateral visit. Hu Zhiyong, a researcher at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, observed that this choice signals Nepal’s prioritization of ties with China. Qian Feng, from Tsinghua University’s National Strategy Institute, emphasized Nepal’s strategic importance in maintaining stability in Tibet and its growing role in BRI partnerships. Hu added that South Asian countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives have benefited from BRI projects, and Nepal, too, seeks a share of this “big cake for cooperation.”

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said Nepal-China relations were further strengthened with his recent China visit.

PM Oli said it while speaking at a news conference organized at Tribhuvan International Airport after he returned home from China, completing the four-day official visit today. The two-country relations were further strengthened, which benefits Nepal, he argued.

"Various agreements were made on the projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) during my visit, from which Nepal will reap utmost benefits," PM Oli reminded, adding that separate discussion and agreements would be made on each project.

The Head of the government also shared that Nepal and China signed the agreement on BRI cooperation framework in Beijing. The agreement was signed by Secretary at Foreign Ministry, Amrit Bahadur Rai, from Nepali side while the Vice Chair of the National Development and Reform Commission, Liu Sushe, from the Chinese side. 

The agreements were made in the program attended by PM Oli and his Chinese counterpart Li Qiang. Similarly, the both Prime Ministers signed the agreement on mutual assistance.

Some of the projects are on Tokha-Chhahare Tunnel Way construction, promotion of trade between Nepal and China, export of thermally processed buffalo meat from Nepal to China and exchange of certificates on completion of 9-story Durbar Square building by China. 

Also included in the agreement are on development projects, and economic and technological aid.

The discussions were held also on the issues like expansion of connectivity, development of industrial infrastructures, agriculture, trade, tourism, investment, science and technology, sports, natural disaster management, expansion of two-country relations at people-to-people level, and poverty alleviation.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli returned today after completing a four-day official visit to the People's Republic of China on Thursday.

Leading the Nepali delegation, Prime Minister Oli had left for Beijing on December 2 for the China visit, at the friendly invitation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang. Prime Minister Oli and his delegation are scheduled to reach Kathmandu this afternoon.

While in Beijing, Prime Minister Oli met with Chinese President Xi Jinping, held bilateral talks and oversaw the signing of various agreements including a framework agreement on Belt and Road Cooperation in presence of his Chinese counterpart Li.

The Prime Minister also delivered a keynote speech under the theme of Comprehensive Democracy: A Journey towards ‘Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali’ at a programme organized in Peking University in Beijing. He also addressed the 'Nepal-China Business Summit' on Wednesday.

The Nepali delegation led by Prime Minister Oli includes his spouse Radhika Shakya, Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Arzu Rana Deuba, Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister Bishnu Prasad Rimal, Economic and Development Advisor to the Prime Minister Yubaraj Khatiwada, members of parliament, high-ranking government officials, private sector representatives and media persons.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is returning home today after completing a four-day official visit to the People's Republic of China.

Leading the Nepali delegation, Prime Minister Oli had left for Beijing on December 2 for the China visit, at the friendly invitation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang. Prime Minister Oli and his delegation are scheduled to reach Kathmandu this afternoon.

While in Beijing, Prime Minister Oli met with Chinese President Xi Jinping, held bilateral talks and oversaw the signing of various agreements including a framework agreement on Belt and Road Cooperation in presence of his Chinese counterpart Li.

The Prime Minister also delivered a keynote speech under the theme of Comprehensive Democracy: A Journey towards ‘Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali’ at a program organized in Peking University in Beijing. He also addressed the 'Nepal-China Business Summit' on Wednesday.

The Nepali delegation led by Prime Minister Oli includes his spouse Radhika Shakya, Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Arzu Rana Deuba, Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister Bishnu Prasad Rimal, Economic and Development Advisor to the Prime Minister Yubaraj Khatiwada, members of parliament, high-ranking government officials, private sector representatives and media persons.

I feel singularly privileged to join you all and speak to this august gathering of intellectuals, aspiring scholars, and esteemed friends of Nepal.

I extend my profound gratitude to the President of the University for his generous invitation. While in my youth, I had read of the inspiring stature of the Peking University. The anti-imperialist and anti-feudal May Fourth Movement began at this University in 1919. That movement was an important turning point in the history of modern China. 

As I stand here at “Yan Yuan”, it is indeed a matter of pleasure to interact with the professionals and students who are at this temple of knowledge, and cradle of creativity. This atmosphere, which is full of academic energy and spark is truly inspiring. In our Sanskrit literature, there is an ancient aphorism: “Asatoma sadgamaya; tamaso ma jyotirgamaya”, which reflects our quest to move away from ignorance to truth, darkness to the light. In this context, what I am going to share with you today are the contemplations that I carry from my pursuit for that light. 

Nepal and China are the land of ancient wisdom. The teachings of great philosophers and sages have inspired generations, touching many lives across the world. Many great civilizations grew up in this part of the world—and greatness of those civilizations are unshakable foundations of our society. And those civilizations still resonate in our journey toward modernity. Our region has a richness of dedication and diligence. Our ancestors were able to build on those attributes and achieved progress while the rest of the world was still in the darker shadows and deeper slumber. 

And our forebears—they were not only the thinkers. They were innovators, and visionaries whose contribution is a legacy to Asia as well as the world. When I say these, it is not to say that all was well all the times in the history of the region. We had our share of turbulence and challenges. We saw the darker phases. We saw people being subject to deprivation and tyranny. Societies were unequal and fractured due to the stifling cages of discriminatory societal norms.  

But despite this, the ray of hope, the beam of wisdom and light for innovation was never extinguished in the region. The rise and resurgence of Asia today is based on this civilizational foundation. 

Today, the responsibility is ours to carry that torch, to build on the path laid down by our ancestors, and to expand the frontiers of human progress. And, in this direction, I admire the headway being made by China, her people and institutions like Peking University.

The world today talks of decay in democracy, or democracy in retreat. These trends implore us to ask broader questions—what exactly is democracy? When does democracy really deliver? Has democracy been able to rise beyond mere cosmetics? Does one size fits all in the name of democracy?

Often, the notion of democracy has been confined to binary boxes. Often, the process of democracy has been confined to a few cosmetic checklists. Often, the understanding of democracy has been truncated—with lopsided focus on single aspects of electing the representatives. 

Then how do we see a bigger picture? 

We must envision democracy as not merely a political framework but also a social system—one that upholds the dignity of every individual, inspires a sense of boundless potential, and fosters an environment of safety and security for all. 

While taking forward the ideas of democracy, debates emerged regarding its class character, leading to the distinction between what is often termed ‘Old’ and ‘New’ democracy. In ‘Old’ democracy, a privileged class—often referred to as the bourgeoisie—took the lead, while the toiling masses remained subordinate throughout the process of political transformation. 

In contrast, ‘New’ democracy saw the working class take the forefront, collaborating with oppressed and exploited groups from various strata of society. Historically, Nepali society and the economy bore strong feudal characteristics. For centuries, the country was ruled by a hereditary monarchy, often disconnected from the aspirations and needs of its people. During the 104 years of Rana oligarchy, while the rest of the world witnessed profound modernization, Nepal remained isolated. This period is often regarded as a ‘lost century’ in Nepal’s quest for democracy and development.

Nepal’s journey to political transformation stands as a unique model in global history. Unlike many movements worldwide, where political struggles were predominantly led by parties representing a single class, Nepal's political revolution was a collaborative effort, uniting representatives from competing classes.

The dawn of democracy began in Nepal in 1951 with the overthrow of the Rana autocracy after years of relentless struggle. But in 1961, monarchy recaptured absolute power and banned the political parties and imposed the partyless ‘Panchayat-system’. 

Yet, the resilience of the Nepali people prevailed, and the political movement of 1990 restored multiparty democracy, heralding a new era. Yet, that tryst with democracy proved to be fleeting. An armed conflict that erupted in 1996 inflicted immense human suffering and plunged the nation into further instability. The king, who ascended the throne following the mysterious royal massacre, once again seized absolute power, curtailing freedoms and undermining democratic progress. 

However, through our unwavering commitment to a home-grown peace process, this dark and tumultuous decade drew to a close in 2006 with ‘Comprehensive Peace Accord’.  In 2008, the monarchy was abolished, and in 2015, a highly progressive constitution was adopted, written by elected representatives. This historic document, rooted in the principles of social justice, has become a cornerstone of Nepal's democratic transformation.

Nepal’s political history is unique in the sense that both major political forces—left leaning and the right leaning—when they divide, monarchy usurps more power; yet, when united, they have consistently succeeded in subduing autocracy and advancing people’s freedom.

The post 1990s political landscape is shaped by these two distinct forces. In different junctures of Nepali history, different forces emerged as determining political actors: Rana versus king, king versus political parties, constitutional force versus violent force. Eventually, extremism perished when two parties—Nepali Congress and CPN -UML representing two trends together stabilized the political landscape.

At different milestones, these political parties demonstrated enough vision and maturity to forge alliances against autocracy. What I am sharing with you today is the story of our struggle for freedom, the story of transformation of our polity, the story of perseverance and resilience of Nepali people. 

Guided by the philosophy of Marxism, and under the visionary leadership of the People’s Leader Madan Bhandari, my party developed the principle of People's Multi-Party Democracy (PMD). 

PMD consists of synthesis of three key dimensions of the people’s struggles in Nepal: patriotism, social change, and democracy. 

The PMD, initially presented as the program of the Nepali revolution, sought the development of national capital and the transformation of the mode of production. It envisioned a constitution, written by the people themselves, as they are sovereign authority. 

This vision of comprehensive democracy embraces the political, economic, social and cultural aspects to empower the individual and society. At the economic sphere –mere rights to make choices won't suffice. Let’s be honest about this––for a vast number of people living in deprivation, the freedom to choose doesn’t mean much. Sustainable development and shared prosperity should empower people to expand their choices while ensuring social justice. 

In the socio-cultural sphere––tolerance and compassion are the key pillars. The first and last line of defence of democracy should be built in the minds of people––in their values, in their way of living.  

There is another equally important aspect of human life which implores us for the vision of comprehensive democracy. And that is the expanding frontier of technology. 

What if the unfolding of technological revolution ends up creating a large segment of people who become ‘irrelevant’ for the job market? Won’t such a marginalization of humans be a recipe for disaster?

Any scenario of that kind will not only be morally hollow but will also be socially disturbing and politically unfair. Democracy cannot thrive in the echo-chambers built by algorithms of new technology. 

My vision of ‘Comprehensive Democracy’ measures success not merely by economic growth but by the well-being of its people. And I see such a broader appreciation of democracy in President Xi’s vision of the “whole process people’s democracy”, which is rooted in China’s historical traditions, culture, and socio-economic development. 

The vision championed by the Communist Party of China, the way its party cadre are selected and promoted, are the pragmatic practice of democracy and meritocracy. CPC stands as a compelling testament to the idea that "one size does not fit all" in the name of democracy.

With our political issues mostly settled, we are wholeheartedly and single-mindedly focused on socio-economic transformation. We have instilled our vision in our constitution that envisions building a “socialism oriented” society. At this period of time, we are striving to lay robust foundations for a model of socialism uniquely tailored to our needs and aspirations.

We have encapsulated socialism with Nepali characteristics in our national aspiration––"Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali!’ This aspiration is built on the pillars of economic equity and societal well-being.

For us, prosperity means economic growth with equity—ensuring a level playing field for all, equitable access to quality education and healthcare as fundamental rights and providing social safety nets and empowering marginalized communities. 

Achieving this requires––robust democratic institutions that ensure political stability, good governance, and transparency, fostering a culture of trust and social harmony.

Cultivating a culture of democracy and participation at every level of society strengthens social cohesion and peace—prerequisites for collective happiness. 

This vision aspires to harmonize both material progress and the well-being of all. Nepal and China, the lands of Buddha and Confucius, share a rich history of harmonious coexistence and enduring friendship. As trusted neighbours and steadfast partners, our two nations collaborate closely in various areas of mutual interest.  

Nepal remains deeply committed to the ‘One China Principle’, a consensus upheld by all political parties in the country. We admire the visionary initiatives of President Xi such as the Belt and Road Initiative in the spirit of shared prosperity and win-win cooperation. China has lifted 800m of its people out of poverty and set an inspiring example of ‘prosperity with happiness’, where growth encompasses well-being and equity. 

China’s miraculous economic development offers valuable lessons for Nepal as it embarks on its own developmental journey. Together, Nepal and China can envision a future of shared prosperity and enduring friendship, inspired by mutual respect and the pursuit of a better world for all.

Excerpts from the speech delivered at Peking University 

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has observed that the agreements made with China during his official visit were of historical value.

PM Oli, who is currently on a China visit at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart, Li Qiang, viewed that his visit was meaningful to make Nepal-China relations broader, deeper and strengthened. He said it during a reception hosted by Nepali Embassy in Beijing today.

At a time when Nepal is moving ahead with political stability for prosperity and the developed countries like China investing and cooperating with Nepal on the latter's journey to prosperity, Nepal was planning to attract a huge number of Chinese tourists in 2025, PM Oli said, adding that he was excited after the discussion with Chinese industrialists.

The present government led by two large parties in Nepal would make utmost efforts to usher in modernism and prosperity in the country.

Similarly, Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba observed PM Oli's visit had reached Nepal-China relations to a new height.

Nepali Ambassador to China, Dr Krishna Prasad Oli, viewed the PM's visit to China as fruitful to strengthen mutual trust and understanding between the two countries.

Nepal and China have reached an agreement on the Belt and Road Initiative Cooperation Framework during the PM's China visit.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who is presently on a four-day official visit to China since Monday, has said Nepal is interested in welcoming investments from China.

In his address to a reception organized by the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and China Council for the Promotion of International Trade today, the Prime Minister said the atmosphere is favorable for investment in Nepal which has made its way towards an era of political stability and prosperity.

"We will facilitate the investments for realizing the national aspiration 'Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali'. We are committed to investment security," he said. The PM also invited Chinese investors to visit Nepal gifted by its natural beauty and seek investment opportunities.

The Prime Minister arrived in Beijing on December 2 at the Invitation of his Chinese counterpart Li Qiang. 

He is scheduled to return home tomorrow, Thursday.

Visiting Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that Nepal would reap benefits from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

In his address to a program held at Peking University, PM Oli expressed the belief that China has strongly supported Nepal's development and the BRI project initiated under the visionary leadership of President Xi Jinping would further deepen bilateral relations between the two countries.

On the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China in 2025, PM Oli said that high-level visits would be exchanged between the two countries to add a new dimension to the bilateral relations.

The Prime Minister further said that an old university like Peking could also contribute to the educational development of Nepal.

PM Oli was welcomed by University Chair Prof Gong Qihuang. Other members of the prime minister-led delegation were also present on the occasion.

Prime Minister Oli is also scheduled to address the Nepal China Business Forum today itself.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who is currently on an official visit to China, is scheduled to deliver a speech on 'various dimensions of Nepal-China relations' at Peking University on Wednesday.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, PM Oli will also address the Nepal-China Business Forum, jointly organized by the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, today.

Prime Minister Oli paid a courtesy call on Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday. On the same day, he held separate meetings with his counterpart Li Qiang and Chairman of the People's Congress of China Zhao Leji.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on mutual cooperation in nine areas was signed after talks between the delegations led by the two prime ministers at the Great Hall of the People.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who is currently on a four-day official visit to the People's Republic of China, beginning Monday, and Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee  of the National People's Congress of the People's Republic of China, held a meeting today.

On the occasion, they discussed the matters relating to Nepal-China relations and mutual concerns.

Similarly, the two leaders exchanged views on activities of the CPN-UML, the political exchanges and future cooperation, according to the Prime Minister's Private Secretariat.

Prior to this, the Prime Minister paid a courtesy call on Chinese President Xi Jinping. 

Likewise, the Prime Minister's delegation held a bilateral meeting with the Chinese delegation led by Premier Li Qiang.

Prime Minister Oli arrived in China at the friendly invitation of his Chinese counterpart.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who is presently on a four-day official visit to the People's Republic of China, beginning Monday, today paid a courtesy call on President of China, Xi Jinping.

During the meeting, the two leaders exchanged views on the issues relating to Nepal-China relations and mutual interests and concerns.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Arzu Rana Deuba, Prime Minister's Chief Political Advisor Bishnu Prasad Rimal and Economic Advisor Yuba Raj Khatiwada, Chief Secretary Eaknaryan Aryal, Acting Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai, Joint Secretary Krishna Prasad Dhakaal and Nepal's Ambassador to China Krishna Prasad Oli accompanied the Prime Minister during the meeting with the Chinese President.

The Prime Minister arrived in China at the friendly invitation of his Chinese counterpart Li Qiang.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang welcomed Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing today. PM Oli is currently on an official visit to China.

On the occasion, the Chinese Liberation Army accorded a 'guard of honor' to PM Oli.

The welcome ceremony was attended by the Chinese leaders as well.

PM Oli introduced the Nepali delegation members on the occasion, while the Chinese Premier also introduced his leaders.

Later, the bilateral meeting and signing ceremony are scheduled between the two Prime Ministers. PM Oli is holding a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping today itself.

The Nepali delegation led by Prime Minister Oli arrived in China on Monday.

The entourage comprises PM's spouse Radhika Shakya, Foreign Minister Dr Arzu Rana Deuba, PM's chief advisor Bishnu Rimal, PM's economic and development advisor Yubaraj Khatiwada, federal lawmakers, chief secretary, high level government officials, private sector representatives and media persons.