China to provide 1bln yuan to Nepal for postquake projects

China has agreed to provide grant assistance of 1 billion yuan (about US$144 million) to Nepal for the implementation of a number of projects, China.org.cn learned from the embassy of Nepal in China on Dec. 30.

The projects include the repair and improvement of the Syaphrubesi-Rasuwagadhi highway, the upgrading and renovation of the Civil Service Hospital and other post-quake reconstruction projects in Nepal, according to the embassy's press release.

The projects aim to improve Nepal's connectivity with China, especially by facilitating tourism, trade and investment. It will also enhance health care services in Nepal and improve the living conditions of the Nepali people in the quake-affected areas.

Nepal was hit by a massive earthquake in 2015.

The grant agreement was signed and exchanged by Leela Mani Paudyal, the Nepalese ambassador to China, and Zhang Xiangchen, Deputy China International Trade Representative of the Ministry of Commerce.

"The Government of Nepal has expressed its sincere appreciation to the government of the People's Republic of China for this assistance and for continued support in the socio-economic development of Nepal," the press release said.

source: China