Nepal and China Discuss Forestry and Biodiversity Cooperation

Kathmandu: Ain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri, Minister for Forests and Environment of Nepal, held a bilateral meeting with Liu Guohong, Administrator of China’s National Forestry and Grassland Administration, in Beijing on May 23.

The two sides discussed strengthening cooperation in forestry management and biodiversity conservation. Minister Thakuri highlighted Nepal’s progress in afforestation, as outlined in its nationally determined contributions (NDCs), and efforts to protect endangered species and ecosystems.

He proposed potential collaboration in forestry research, wildlife management, medicinal plant cultivation, and development of small and medium forest-based industries. A special request was made for support in developing the Suryabinayak Zoo in Nepal.

Similarly, Liu Guohong shared China’s initiatives in forest and grassland development, national park management, and wildlife protection. He expressed interest in deeper cooperation in scientific research, technology sharing, capacity building, and controlling illegal wildlife trade.

Nepal’s Ambassador to China Dr. Krishna Prasad Oli, along with senior forestry officials from both countries, attended the meeting. Earlier, the Nepali delegation viewed a video on China’s grassland and protected area management, and later visited a bamboo and rattan research lab and furniture company in Beijing.