Kathmandu, September 26 – Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation; Physical Infrastructure and Transport; and Urban Development, Kulman Ghising, held separate courtesy meetings with the Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, Maeda Toru, and the Ambassador of the European Union to Nepal, Veronique Lorenzo.
During the meeting at the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Ambassador Toru extended congratulations and best wishes to Minister Ghising on behalf of the Government of Japan. Discussions focused on Japan’s long-standing partnership in Nepal’s economic and social development, bilateral grants and loans, technical assistance, and the implementation of ongoing projects. Specific topics included additional support for the Nagdhunga Tunnel, reconstruction of the BP Highway, further assistance for the 140 MW Tanahu Hydropower Project, Koteshwor Junction improvement, and progress in electricity transmission and distribution projects. Minister Ghising also requested Japanese support in strategically important projects such as the 670 MW Dudhkoshi and 1,200 MW Budhigandaki reservoir hydropower projects, infrastructure development, and preparation of an integrated master plan for long-term urban management of the Kathmandu Valley. Ambassador Toru expressed Japan’s readiness to support Nepal’s priority mega projects.
In a separate meeting held at the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Ambassador Lorenzo conveyed the European Union’s congratulations and best wishes to Minister Ghising. Discussions centered on strategically important and transformative reservoir-based hydropower projects, green energy, energy security and efficiency, and further cooperation in Nepal’s energy sector. Minister Ghising emphasized that while the government formed after the Gen-Z movement prioritizes elections, good governance, and reconstruction of damaged physical infrastructure, it is equally focused on advancing development projects through policy and legal reforms, inter-ministerial coordination, and strengthening of the electricity market. Thanking the EU for its continued support, he highlighted the 670 MW Dudhkoshi Reservoir Project as a top priority and requested assistance in mobilizing financial resources and improving transmission and distribution systems. Ambassador Lorenzo reaffirmed the EU’s readiness to continue and expand cooperation in Nepal’s energy sector.
