China has urged Nepal to join its campaign of Silk Road which, it argues, is for regional connectivity and prosperity.

The Chinese side made such request to Nepal during 14th annual general meeting of Nepal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industries here on Tuesday.

China has further argued that more than 100 countries have shown interest in the Silk Road campaign it initiated and signed memorandum of understanding with 40 countries.

On the occasion, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Krishna Bahadur Mahara said Nepal would expand trade relations with China in view of the geopolitical sensitivity.

He however said, "I assure you that Nepal will make further decision to augment trade relations with China."

The Finance Minister claimed that Nepal's economic indicators have been positive. But, exports must be increased to reduce trade loss.

He thanked China for its continuous assistance to Nepal's infrastructure development.

Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Yu Wong said, "I urge Nepal to assist in forwarding the Silk Road initiative. It is for regional prosperity and connectivity."

China has been assisting Nepal in the sectors of hydropower, aviation, construction and transmission line, he said, adding such assistance will be continued.

Former Secretary Purushottam Ojha opined that Nepal should join the Silk Road campaign launched by China. For this, China and Nepal should focus on economic development, he added.

Chairman of Nepal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry Rajesh Kaji Shrestha shared that the Chamber set up in 1999 has made bilateral agreements with various 29 chambers of China and was working to promote trade between the two countries. RSS