National Security Council meeting reviews Middle East conflict
The meeting of the National Security Council presided over by Prime Minister and Chairman of the Council, KP Sharma Oli, reviewed the international, regional and national security situations on Sunday.
The review meeting dwelt on the conflict in the Middle East and its effects on national security, challenges, safety of the people in the region and future strategy.
Member Secretary of the Council, Rameshwor Dangal, informed that the meeting dwelt on challenges to be faced in national security in the wake of international conflicts.
Similarly, the meeting also decided to recommend the Council of Ministers for its policy level approval to purchase arms and ammunition required for Nepal Army for the fiscal year, 2081/82.
A procedure to conduct the meeting, 2081 was endorsed by the meeting attended by Home Minister, Defense Minister, Chief Secretary, Chief of Army Staffs, and Defense Secretary.
Won’t trade national interest for power: PM Oli
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said he will not compromise on national interest to remain in power.
Addressing an event ‘Role of former security personnel in national security and development’ organized by the Nepal National Ex-army and Police Association on Sunday, Oli said his government is committed to the protection of national unity and the welfare of the country.
He said, “We can’t give up our national interest for power or for keeping the government afloat”.
Oli recalled that the government had faced blockades in the past and toppled later on. He added, “At that time, we had pledged to return to power through the main gate of Singhadurbar through elections and not through deception, and we did.”
Prime Minister Oli recalled signing of a trade and transit agreement during his previous term when an Indian embargo was in place.
Describing speculations of his decreasing credibility as sponsored, he insisted that he will show how popular he is in the upcoming elections.
Mentioning that his government is implementing the report of the parliamentary committee on co-operative embezzlement, Prime Minister Oli said it is against democratic norms and values to shout slogans on the court premises in favor of a person under investigation.
PM Oli added that he is not biased toward anyone and that everyone should accept court judgments.
No compromise on issues of national interests: PM
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that there will be no compromise on the issues of nation and national interests for the cause of power bickering.
Addressing a seminar on the national 'Role of Ex-Security Personnel on National Security and Development', the Prime Minister recalled the signing of the Trade and Transit Agreement with China by considering the national interest when India imposed an economic blockade on Nepal.
"Now, attempts are made to attack the forms of national security under different pretexts. We have moved ahead with the firm determination not to harm others but to grasp our genuine interests," the PM added.
PM Oli said that the current government of two major political parties, Nepali Congress (NC) and CPN-UML, was working to safeguard the aspirations of national unity and national interests.
On a separate context, PM Oli, also the CPN-UML Chairman, said the weapons that are kept under the ground and are rusted won't make any sense now and urged the concerned side not to issue threats to the Nepali society by false publicity.
Likewise, the PM urged his critics-- who term him being unpopular -- to wait until the upcoming elections.
Similarly, he said that democracy was not anarchy and added that any sort of threats was unacceptable in a democracy.
On the occasion, PM Oli said that the government implemented the report of the parliamentary committee on investigations on cooperative funds' embezzlement and stated that showing unruly acts in the court defending the investigated persons was against the democratic norms and values.
PM Oli insists on AI use for convenient life
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has recommended utilizing IT innovations to simplify our lives.
In his address to the "Artificial Intelligence (AI) International Conference,' organized by the Youth Association of Nepal today, the Prime Minister stressed the need to promote the use of science and technology to pursue a more convenient lifestyle.
"We have a thirst for development and the concept of Digital Nepal was launched to address such desire. We should ensure the responsible use of AI, being aware of its potential misuse," the Prime Minister said. He also echoed the need for legal provisions to prevent the potential abuse of AI technologies.
He advised that the use of AI in education be explored to improve students' performance. Prime Minister Oli also said the government will develop policies and plans on AI.
The two-day event aims to educate youths, political parties, and the public about AI development and its applications, it is said
Prime Minister Oli today inaugurated the event which is said to be the first of its kind in Nepal. According to YAN Chair Kshitiz Thebe, the event is expected to help enable an atmosphere conducive to preparing a national policy on AI.
"We hope this conference will contribute to the further development of the IT sector in Nepal," he said, adding that it has been attended by around 1,000 representatives from home and abroad.
Association General Secretary Suman Puri said the Conference will feature 10 panel discussions on various AI-related topics with the participation of foreign AI experts and representatives including from the European Union, Japan, the UK, and so on.
PM Oli urges concerned authorities to strongly raise issue of climate justice in COP-29
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli instructed the concerned ministries and agencies to eloquently advocate for climate justice in the impending COP-29 climate conference.
PM Oli directed the relevant ministries and agencies to strongly raise the issues relating to climate justice for vulnerable countries like Nepal as articulated by Nepal in the UN's 79th General Assembly (UNGA).
The UN climate conference is taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan from November 11 to 22 this year. The Nepali delegation to the conference is being led by President Ram Chandra Paudel.
Addressing the third meeting of the Environment Conservation and Climate Change Management National Council at the Office of Prime Minister and Council of Ministers today, Oli urged the Nepali delegation to put forward Nepal's clear stance and perspective on climate change and its impact in the upcoming COP-29.
PM Oli has been championing climate justice and advocating for compensation for Nepal from the countries responsible for significant carbon emissions, highlighting the adverse effects of global warming on the Himalaya region and its habitat.
He is calling for an action-plan from the global community aimed at maintaining environmental balance from high mountains to sea.
Prime Minister Oli directed to give priority to intensive forest expansion by ending the situation where there is no forest in the designated forest areas. He emphasized that even though Nepal has 46 percent of forest area, only 28 percent of special forest area should be expanded in the remaining 12 percent area.
Prime Minister Oli urged the authorities to work to maintain at least 40 percent forest area and mentioned that Nepal is contributing to global environmental cleanliness by keeping forests, mountains and valleys.
In Nepal, 17 percent of the land is mountains and 7 percent is lakes. Prime Minister Oli also instructed not to delay the approval of the Ministry of Forest for the work that the government has decided for the project. He said, "The Ministry of Forest should not act as if it brought the forest from its own home. During the construction of the project, there have been complaints that the Ministry of Forest has stopped the decisions made by the Council of Ministers.
Protecting the forest according to the need, the industry will be allowed to operate in places where there is no forest. The meeting reviewed the work of the council for one year and informed about the status of implementation of the decisions of the previous meeting, the effective participation of Nepal in the World Climate Conference (COP-29) to be held in Baku, Azerbaijan in November 2024, changing the name of the Ministry of Forests and Environment to Forests, Environment and Climate Change and It has decided to take guidelines etc. for the next one year.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Urban Development Minister Prakashman Singh, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, Physical Infrastructure and Transport Minister Devendra Dahal, Forest and Environment Minister Ain Bahadur Shahi, Chief Ministers of various provinces, National Planning Commission Vice Chairman Dr Shivraj Adhikari, chief secretary Eak Narayan Aryal and others.
Rift widens between ruling and opposition parties
As Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli completes his first 100 days in office, public reaction to the government’s performance is mixed. Despite unveiling a long list of accomplishments, criticism from both the ruling party and opposition focuses on allegations of corruption and failures in governance.
Oli claims that 70 percent of the government’s targets have been achieved, but this is part of a routine practice where governments present progress reports during their "honeymoon period" that often fail to impress the public. After forming the government, there was a delay in setting priorities, with a shared policy resolution introduced only after 67 days. As a result, beyond routine matters, the government has made little substantive progress.
In July, the Nepali Congress (NC) and CPN-UML formed a coalition government, promising political stability and economic development. They also pledged to amend the Constitution, but there has been little action. After 100 days, there is no visible enthusiasm for the amendments within the ruling parties. NC and UML have yet to initiate discussions within their parties or with others on potential changes, particularly to the electoral system and federalism. Meanwhile, opposition parties, including the CPN (Maoist Center), have started cautioning against regressive changes to the constitution.
Despite the coalition’s promise of government stability, reports of a growing rift between NC and UML have surfaced. Oli has repeatedly reassured the public that his government will last its full term, but there are signs of internal division. Tensions have arisen over issues such as the removal of Kul Man Ghising from Nepal Electricity Authority, changes to party split laws and ambassadorial appointments. Fringe parties have also expressed growing dissatisfaction with the government.
The ruling UML's decision to accept donations from businessman Min Bahadur Gurung for party office construction has also drawn strong criticism, including from within the party. On the external front, the government has made little headway. Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba’s visits and Prime Minister Oli’s meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the UN General Assembly have yielded limited progress. Relations with China have also stagnated.
Meanwhile, tensions between ruling and opposition parties are escalating, with the opposition warning of street protests in the coming months. The arrest of former home minister and Rastriya Swatantra Party Chair Rabi Lamichhane has further strained relations. Opposition leaders, including Pushpa Kamal Dahal of the Maoist Center, claim Lamichhane’s arrest was politically motivated and that the government is targeting opposition figures while neglecting broader governance issues. Dahal has accused the government of selective prosecution in corruption cases.
The Maoist Center is preparing to organize a demonstration in Kathmandu to warn the government against taking any decisions targeting the opposition parties. Dahal is of the view that the government has become too weak in governance and is targeting the opposition parties on the pretext of fighting corruption.
Another contentious issue is Oli’s attempt to introduce an ordinance to lower the threshold for party splits. Under current law, 40 percent of lawmakers are required to split a party, but the proposed ordinance would reduce this to 20 percent, enabling members of CPN (Unified Socialist) to defect to UML. Opposition parties have urged President Ramchandra Paudel to reject the ordinance, warning that it could create a rift between the President and Prime Minister. So far, the President has avoided major controversies.
In its first 100 days, the government has made little progress in addressing the country’s economic challenges, and there have been no visible improvements in governance or service delivery. Dissatisfaction is growing, both within major political parties and among the public, as optimism fades about the government’s ability to deliver meaningful change or stability.
PM Oli urges all to work on dengue control
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has urged all for their efforts to control dengue spread.
In a video message today, the PM has urged one and all to work for this as some of the districts in the country are affected from dengue spread.
The PM has urged the stakeholders from the federal, province and local levels, civil servants, security bodies, educational institutions, social campaigners and all members of the community to conduct the 'search and destroy' of campaign mosquitoes nationwide at 10:00 am on every Friday.
The PM has stressed that the breeding sites of mosquitoes should be identified and the larva and pupa should be destroyed for the best way to control the dengue spread.
"Making a prosperous Nepal is possible only if the citizens are healthy. So, I urge all to extend their support from their respective places to make this campaign a success for dengue control," the PM stated in his message.
Editorial: PM Oli’s 100 days in office
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s claim that his government achieved 70 percent of its goals in the first 100 days highlights underlying challenges in governance. The period saw some important developments, particularly in governance reforms and handling of the economy. Oli said the government could have performed even better if it were not for the devastating floods and landslides triggered by heavy rains toward the end of September.
Although the floods and landslides wreaked havoc, claiming 391 lives, and affecting over 2,555 families, the government swiftly responded by offering financial assistance. Essential services like water, electricity and communication were restored within 15 days in affected areas. Economic reforms formed a cornerstone of Oli’s early tenure. Long-pending payments to dairy and sugarcane farmers were cleared. The government also facilitated release of outstanding payments worth around Rs 6.75bn to different construction entrepreneurs, which is expected to stimulate development projects. The government also launched an innovative youth startup loan program, offering collateral-free loans of up to Rs. 2.5m to 165 young entrepreneurs, aiming to boost youth-led businesses and employment.
Authentication of the Transitional Justice Bill and the formation of a recommendation committee to establish two transitional justice commissions show the government is serious about taking the peace process, which began 17 years ago, to its logical end.
On the broader economic front, signs of recovery were visible, with the formation of an Economic Advisory Commission fostering confidence in the private sector. A significant achievement during this period was securing investment commitments worth Rs 34bn in over 200 new industries. Federal government spending saw a modest increase, reaching Rs. 329bn, while revenue mobilization grew by 13.3 percent, totaling Rs. 248bn. These figures reflect a cautious but steady recovery from earlier economic instability.
Oli’s government also made strides in healthcare and social welfare. Free treatment for burn victims and the expansion of cancer treatment services to all seven provinces were notable achievements. The government increased compensation for the families of deceased migrant workers to Rs 1m, up from Rs. 700,000, and extended the benefit to families of those who died after returning to Nepal.
In energy and infrastructure, the trilateral agreement reached with India and Bangladesh for the export of 40 MW of hydropower to Bangladesh is an important milestone in regional energy cooperation. Tunneling breakthroughs in three major road projects have also been listed as achievements of the government. Additionally, over 4,000 km of roads were repaired, and 32.5 km were blacktopped.
Oli’s government also prioritized digital and banking inclusion, extending fiber-optic internet (FTTH) to all 77 districts and ensuring banking access in all 753 units. On the international front, streamlined procedures allowed foreign investors to gain approvals quickly, which has helped position Nepal as a more business-friendly destination.
Despite facing criticism and rumors of instability, the government has focused on systemic reforms rather than populist measures. However, the true measure of success will be in transforming these initiatives into visible improvements in people’s lives.
PM Oli commends UN peacekeepers on UN Day
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has commended courageous peacekeepers from around the world, particularly those serving at present in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
In his address to an event jointly organized by the Ministry of Defense and the Nepali Army at the NA Headquarters today to mark United Nations (UN) Day 2024, the Prime Minister said UN peacekeepers' unwavering dedication and fearlessness in the face of increasingly complex challenges and hard situations exemplify the true spirit of peacekeeping and inspire all of us to uphold global peace and security.
Highlighting the significance of the Day, he said the moment offers an opportunity to reiterate our steadfast commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter. "For decades, we have been a persistent advocate of peace, equality, cooperation, and the peaceful resolution of conflict in the international arena. Our long contributions to UN peacekeeping missions, international treaties, and disarmament efforts reflect our dedication to global tranquility and harmony. I am immensely proud of our peacekeepers, whose tireless dedication has left a lasting mark on conflict-affected regions in every nook and corner of the globe."
Sharing the features of Nepal's foreign policy with the gathering, he said Nepal always adheres to the principles of peaceful coexistence, mutual respect for sovereignty, and non-interference. "Our position as a nation located between two large neighbors demands that we maintain a policy of "Friend to all and Enmity to none".
He went on to say that Nepal is firmly committed to multilateralism, strongly believing that global challenges like climate change, poverty, and security challenges, starkly require collective and multilateral solutions.
He said Nepal being a responsible and effectively engaging member state in the international community would like to play a constructive role to move forward peace, stability, and sustainable development all around the world.
"Today, I would like to remind all of us that our partnership and collectiveness reinforce the UN to effectively carry out its critical missions, often in some of the world's most challenging environments," he said.
The Prime Minister acknowledged with deep gratitude the spirit of collaboration that drives the UN country teams, UN field missions, and Specialized UN agencies working diligently across the globe. As he said, their dedication to development, peace-building, and humanitarian support is a shining example of how united efforts can create lasting and positive change for millions of people.
The Prime Minister said Nepal is proud of its long peacekeeping history and is committed to sending skilled and competent peacekeepers whenever the UN calls for it. "However, peace operations are facing growing challenges. They are increasingly at risk from violent groups and dynamic security situations. Conflicts are becoming more and more complex so conflict management and resolution require strong international support and solidarity."
Against this backdrop, countries like ours must provide forces with the tools needed to stay safe while carrying out their missions, Prime Minister Oli stressed, adding that the government fully supports efforts to ensure the safety, training, and readiness of our peacekeepers. "We are also deeply committed to the meaningful participation of women as their participation exhibits a symbolic representation by which women's empowerment is established in a conflict-ridden society."
He reminded the gathering that Nepal has wholeheartedly endorsed the "Declaration of Shared Commitments" in support of the “Action for Peacekeeping” (A4P) initiative and its enhanced version, the “A4P Plus Initiative” spearheaded by the United Nations. These initiatives reflect our broader vision of collective global security and Nepal’s readiness to shoulder its responsibilities as a responsible member of the international community, he added.
Addressing the event as the Chief Guest, the Prime Minister stressed the need to recognize the broader challenges the global community faces, particularly the urgent global environmental concerns on this occasion.
He utilized the forum to say that countries like Nepal, despite contributing minimally to global carbon emissions, are disproportionately affected by these crises. It is marred by the melting of glaciers, unpredictable monsoons, and a surge in natural disasters which every year takes away many lives and damages the properties." The recent monsoon disaster in Nepal with the regrettable loss of lives and properties is evident enough of the growing challenges we face. These challenges transcend national borders as we recently saw the disastrous Hurricane Milton devastating Florida in the US. Thus, it is high time for us to collectively fight against the common threat of humankind."
Reiterating that Nepal is committed to playing its part and stands ready to collaborate with global partnerships that prioritize climate resilience and sustainability, he expressed his confidence that the UN’s continued leadership in addressing the climate change issue will guide Nepal forward for shared solutions, which are essential for the survival of vulnerable nations like Nepal.
"In this volatile and ambiguous situation around the world, Nepal remains steadfast in its commitment to the principles of the United Nations. We will continue to support global efforts to promote peace, security, sustainable development, and environmental protection," the Prime Minister said, wishing the entire UN family a joyous moment on behalf of the people of Nepal.
PM lists ‘feats’ of honeymoon period
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli presented the achievements of his government during the first 100 days in office, highlighting various steps taken to address recent challenges, including natural disasters, economic revitalization and public service improvements.
The four-time PM began his speech by mentioning significant tragedies that occurred during the period, including a missing bus incident and multiple aviation accidents, along with severe floods and landslides from Oct 10 to 13, resulting in more than 7,000 disaster-related incidents. The prime minister said these incidents prompted the government to prioritize rescue and relief operations.
The families of 391 deceased individuals received relief payments of Rs 200,000 each, while 2,555 affected families were given immediate assistance totaling Rs 45m. Additionally, Rs 430m was allocated to 71 local bodies in crisis-hit areas for essential service restoration.
The prime minister assured the public that efforts would be made to reconstruct houses damaged by last year's earthquake while rehabilitating those affected by this year’s floods. He acknowledged the impact of these disasters on government operations but asserted that progress has been steady.
In terms of youth employment, Oli emphasized the distribution of startup loans of up to Rs 2.5m to 165 youths, enabling them to initiate businesses. A total of 5,158 entrepreneurs submitted proposals for start-up loans, with selections planned for disbursement by December.
Oli also announced legal action against over 600 individuals involved in cooperative fraud, with 575 already imprisoned. He outlined plans to draft the Cooperative Authority Act to facilitate the return of depositors' savings, establish a Cooperative Credit Information Center, and create a Loan Recovery Tribunal.
Oli stressed the importance of systemic governance in combating corruption. He noted that corrupt elements were attempting to destabilize the country to protect their interests, but the government remains committed to national integrity without compromise.
Oli also reported signs of economic improvement, attributing increased confidence among entrepreneurs to the formation of key commissions, including the Economic Advisory Commission. To enhance petroleum supply and storage capacity, the prime minister said agreements were finalized to expand pipelines from Siliguri, India, to Charali in Jhapa and from Amlekhgunj to Lothar in Chitwan, alongside the construction of storage facilities.
To improve public service efficiency, Oli said a trial system for tracking files through QR codes was initiated to prevent bureaucratic delays. The Department of Industry implemented an automated system enabling foreign investments up to Rs 500m to receive immediate approval without investors' physical presence. Oli said an online service tracking system is operational in 58 survey offices, and provisions for senior citizens and disabled individuals have been made in 267 land revenue offices.
Prime Minister Oli also announced an increase in compensation for families of deceased foreign workers from Rs 7 lakh to Rs 1m, and stated that families of individuals, who die of associated conditions even after receiving medical treatment, would also receive this amount.
Oli also mentioned ‘concrete steps’ taken for the utilization of newly-built international airports—the Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa and Pokhara Regional International Airport. The government arranged international flights by reducing the price of aviation fuel for Bhairahawa and Pokhara to attract flights. Starting Nov 10, the prime minister said flights from Dubai to Bhairahawa and from Kathmandu to Bhairahawa will commence, with Fly Dubai operating daily flights and Jazeera Airways approved for direct flights three days a week between Bhairahawa and Kuwait.
Prime Minister Oli mentioned what he called ‘significant progress’ in infrastructure projects with a breakthrough in the Dhhedre tunnel (Makwanpur), part of the Kathmandu-Tarai Fast Track project, and completion of the lining of the Nagdhunga main tunnel. In road construction and maintenance, over the past 100 days, 4,038 km of roads have been repaired, and 32.5 km have been blacktopped, contributing to road safety.
In the energy sector, generation of 30 MW of electricity has begun at the Upper Trishuli 3A Hydropower Project while the Chilime Hub GIS Substation and Trishuli Hub Hybrid GIS Substation have also become operational, strengthening the national grid.
Prime Minister Oli took the occasion to highlight the consensus reached on over four dozen acts, regulations and procedures across various ministries as one of the administration’s achievements. The government and political parties have successfully pushed the remaining tasks of the peace process, initiated 17 years ago, toward a logical conclusion, he said while mentioning the Parliament’s endorsement and the presidential authentication of the Bill to amend the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Act.
Oli said that while the two major ruling parties Nepali Congress and CPN-UML have a long history of political rivalry, they came together because of their shared commitments to political stability, development and good governance. While opposition has persisted since the government's inception, the prime minister said the government will remain resolute in its shared commitments for the greater good of the country.
No deadline for corruption prosecution: PM Oli
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli said that the government is clear that any alleged cases of corruption can be investigated at any time and those found responsible for such wrong doings will be held accountable.
Unveiling the government's achievements in its first 100 hundred days amidst a special program at the Singha Durbar-based Office of the Prime Ministers and Council of Ministers today, the head of government said legal actions have been launched against the misappropriation of cooperative funds on the same basis.
"As of date, over 600 individuals have faced legal actions, and above 575 are in confinement," he said, adding that the government is working on a draft to formulate the Cooperative Authority Act aimed at refunding the savings of cooperative members and establishing the Cooperative Loan Information Center and the Debt Recovery Tribunal.
According to Prime Minister Oli, the government is clear that the prevention of corruption and the establishment of good governance can't be achieved 'overnight', they require systematic efforts, instead.
He said the law is a guiding tool for the government to respond to corruption and combat it.
He said, " We have felt the pervasive culture of evading legal repercussions in cases of corruption, protecting corrupts and abettors of corruption, and spreading instability and anarchy in the nation."
Similarly, during the address, he said the incumbent government is sensitive about addressing the concerns of farmers. He said this government has already cleared dues to 1.5 million dairy farmers.
Earlier, the government allocated Rs 600 million for their payments. Similarly, around 75,000 sugarcane farmers have also received their entitled subsidies, according to the PM.
PM Oli added that the government in this period released Rs 800 million to the accounts of Nepal Insurance Authority to cover farmers' insurance claims and paid Rs 6.75 billion to construction companies in this period.
PM says no compromise on issues of national interests
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that the current government will not compromise with anyone on the issues of national interests, good governance and development.
Unveiling the government's achievements made in the first 100 days in his office, the PM said that corruption control and maintenance of good governance was not a matter of mere publicity but should be developed as a system for good governance.
"The government has considered laws as the Guru for corruption control not the camera," the PM said, stating that the government's priority was on institutionalizing a legal system to curb corruption as a result.
With the purpose to protect corrupts and agents of corruption amid the fear of languishing on corruption charges and the desire to escape from actions, we have seen such elements being active aiming to create instability and anarchy in the country, PM Oli said.
Govt successful to conclude peace process: PM
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that the current government was successful in completing the remaining jobs of the peace process.
In his address to the nation to share the government's achievements in its 100 days today, PM Oli said the bill to amend the Enforced Disappeared Persons and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission was passed unopposed from the federal Parliament and was also authenticated by the President.
"A search committee has been formed to constitute the Commission so as to conclude the peace process. This has advanced the process for the constitution of the commission," PM Oli shared.
This is a pleasing message to our society that witnessed a long insurgency, PM Oli said.
Chinese leader Chen calls on PM Oli
A delegation led by Chinese Communist Party’s Central Committee member and Secretary of Qinghai Province Chen Gang called on Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Sunday.
During the meeting held at the Prime Minister’s official residence in Baluwatar, they discussed strengthening mutual relations between the two countries and two parties, the Prime Minister’s Secretariat informed.
Saying that the overall development along with the end of poverty in China under the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party and General Secretary Xi Jinping was extraordinary, Oli, who is also the Chairman of CPN-UML, said that Nepal wants to benefit from that development.
Stating that a new government was formed in collaboration between the two major parties UML and Nepali Congress for political stability, Prime Minister Oli hoped for China's continued support in Nepal’s economic development.
Since there are government-to-government, people-to-people and cultural relations between the two countries, Prime Minister Oli said that the exchange of high-level visits should be continued.
The Prime Minister reminded that Nepal has always been clear in not allowing Nepal’s land to be used for any kind of activities against China while remaining committed to the One China Policy.
Chinese leader Chen said that he came to Nepal at the direction of General Secretary Xi Jinping and clarified that China will always support Nepal in its effort to head towards the path of prosperity.
Saying that he will respect the decision made by the political parties of Nepal, he said that he will inform the General Secretary about the matters that came up during the visit.
Prime Minister Oli’s Chief Advisor Bishnu Prasad Rimal, UML Secretary and Head of Foreign Affairs Department Raghuvir Mahaseth, Department’s members Anjan Shakya and Gopal Khanal, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Krishna Prasad Dhakal, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song and others were present in the meeting.
All sides' efforts must to cope with disaster: PM Oli
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has underlined the need for all sides' efforts to cope with disaster.
PM Oli said it while receiving a memorandum submitted by the CPN (Maoist Center) at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, Singh Durbar, on Sunday.
The Maoist Center drew the PM's attention on making systematic the works of search, rescue and relief distribution in response to the recent floods and landslides that took toll in many districts.
PM Oli vowed the government would take a lead in togetherness for disaster risk reductions. The problems facing the country due to disaster can be tackled together, he added.
Senior Vice Chairman of the Maoist Center, Narayan Kaji Shrestha, said all sectors should play their roles for disaster preparedness, and post-disaster works as search, rescue and relief distribution. Response to disaster is the collective responsibility, he added, expressing commitment that his party was ready to work together with the government for disaster management.
Also accompanying Senior Vice Chairman Shrestha were leaders Agni Sapkota, Dev Prasad Gurung, Barsha Man Pun, Janardan Sharma, and Pampha Bhusal, among others.
Even Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak was present on the occasion.
PM Oli admits lack of disaster preparedness
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli acknowledged that the government was not adequately prepared for the devastating floods and landslides that struck Nepal on Sept 27 and 28. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Oli stated that the scale of the disaster had exceeded expectations.
“We were not prepared for this kind of situation,” he admitted. “We did not expect that there would be this kind of rain, landslides, and such extensive human and physical damage.”
The Prime Minister explained that preparations had been made based on forecasts from the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, which had predicted heavy rain, but the intensity and impact of the disaster were far beyond previous experiences.
Oli was in New York attending the United Nations General Assembly when the disaster occurred and returned to Nepal on Monday. He emphasized that despite being abroad, he was closely monitoring the situation. “Even though I was outside the country, I was aware of the situation here. I also did not expect that it would be this severe,” he said.
The Prime Minister assured the public that the government has done its best to provide relief and carry out rescue operations. “It’s not that nothing was done, the government did its best,” Oli said, while acknowledging potential shortcomings. “There may have been some weaknesses, but giving priority to one area may have delayed efforts in others.”
He praised the efforts of security personnel, stating that over 4,000 people had been rescued.
With the immediate focus on rescue and relief, Oli called for unity in facing the crisis. “This is the time to focus on rescue, relief, and reconstruction for the pain the people are going through,” he said. “This is a common national pain, and we must face this disaster together.”
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, 224 people have lost their lives, 24 are missing, and 158 have been injured in the floods and landslides, which affected 21 districts, including Kavre, Lalitpur, Dhading, Kathmandu, Sindhupalchowk, Sindhuli, and Makawanpur. The estimated damage to infrastructure, including drinking water, roads, energy, irrigation, and livestock, amounts to Rs 17bn.
Chief Secretary Ek Narayan Aryal provided further updates, noting that agricultural crops have also been severely affected. The government plans to complete the search and rescue operations within two days and distribute relief through a one-door system. Temporary housing will be provided for the homeless, and efforts are underway to reopen blocked highways.
The government has urged all sectors to come together to ensure swift recovery and reconstruction efforts.











