14 years after initial deal, China proposes joint committee to manage border ports
Summary
China has proposed a bilateral committee with Nepal to manage border ports, aiming to improve customs clearance, trade facilitation and cross-border movement. The draft also seeks tighter cooperation on infrastructure, port operations and border security after recent disruptions to trade routes.
Key Points
- China handed Nepal a draft proposal to create a Nepal-China Port Management Cooperation Committee to oversee border ports.
- The committee would coordinate customs procedures, operating hours, infrastructure planning and other port-management issues.
- The draft also emphasizes cooperation to prevent smuggling, illegal immigration and other cross-border crimes.
- Trade routes have been disrupted after the August 26 Bhotekoshi flood, with the Tatopani border closed and Korala serving as a limited route.
