Energy Minister Bhusal meets Indian Energy Secretary

A delegation including Energy Secretary to the Government of India Alok Kumar paid a courtesy call on Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Pampha Bhusal today.

On the occasion, they discussed various issues of overall energy development, trade, and mutual benefit. Stressing the need to move ahead on the path of economic prosperity by fulfilling the mutual needs by utilizing the hydropower existing in Nepal through mutual cooperation, Minister Bhusal pointed out the need for easy cooperation in production and trade.

She said, "The energy resources that we have should be utilized for the development of both countries through mutual cooperation. That requires bilateral cooperation."

Elaborating on energy cooperation, Minister Bhusal said, "Energy trade between us should be smooth first."

This will help in the development of both countries and create a conducive environment for energy trade across the neighboring countries. In this sense, I am confident that the secretary-level meeting will be fruitful.” Urging to facilitate the trade environment of energy produced by Nepal in Indian energy market, Minister Bhusal expressed confidence that a good ally would help in prosperity of its neighbors.

On the occasion, Indian Energy Secretary Kumar expressed confidence that energy trade would help in strengthening bilateral ties. Stating that they are positive about creating a conducive environment for energy trade, he said, "We are positive about allowing trade with India and Bangladesh."

Expressing hope that the ongoing meeting in Kathmandu would yield successful results, he said, "I hope we will succeed in this meeting." Stating that Arun-III is moving forward at a fast pace, Secretary Olak said, "I have asked for completion of this project as soon as possible. It will deepen our mutual friendship."

The meeting was attended by Energy Secretary Devendra Karki, Joint Secretary Baburam Bhandari, Executive Director of Nepal Electricity Authority Kulman Ghising, and other officials.