King Birendra of Nepal met with French President Francois Mitterrand in Paris on Tuesday (September 20) and later pledged to work toward fostering greater economic ties with France. The meeting took place at the Elysee Palace at the start of the King's official two-day visit to France. King Birendra told reporters he and Mitterrand discussed bilateral relations. He said he hoped his visit would lead to greater cooperation between the two countries. Later, at an official dinner at the palace, Mitterrand said France would likely grant international funding for a hydro-electric project in Nepal, one of the world's poorest nations. King Birendra, who played host to Mitterrand in 1983, reiterated he was committed to democracy in Nepal. The King is to stay in Paris for two days before starting a private visit to Fontainebleau, Dijon and the south of France. He will also travel to Burgundy, where he is to tour prestigious vineyards.
