Nepal and China have agreed to work towards opening seven new border entry-exit points between the two countries.
Nepali and Chinese customs officials have agreed to reopen the Tatopani-Khasa route by constructing the necessary infrastructure on either side of the border at the earliest. The highway is the main conduit for commerce between the two countries. Nepali and Chinese officials on Thursday agreed to give priority to works related to opening of Kimathanka (Sankhuwasabha), Karola (Mustang), Olangchungola (Taplejung), Larke (Gorkha), Yari (Humla), Lamabagar (Dolakha) and Mugu border points. Deputy Director General of Nepal’s Department of Customs Damdodar Regmi and Deputy Director General of China’s Lhasa Department of Customs Long Chengwei signed an understanding to this effect. After the 25 April earthquake, the Rasuwagadhi-Kerung is the only operational trade link between Nepal and China.
Another major trade route, Tatopani, was blocked by the earthquake. The Rasuwagadhi-Kerung trade route was also cut off by the earthquake. But China cleared it to supply fuel to Nepal after India imposed a blockade against the Himalayan country. Nepali and Chinese customs officials also agreed to expedite construction of two dry ports in Timure of Rasuwa and Larcha of Sindhupalchok. They also agreed to ease entry of Nepali transporters into Tibet.
