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Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Biraj Bhakta Shrestha held talks with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) President Tanaka Akihiko on Tuesday. The meeting, held at the Ministry of Energy, focused on expanding bilateral cooperation in the development of Nepal’s energy, water resources, and irrigation infrastructure.

During the meeting, Minister Shrestha praised JICA’s contribution to Nepal’s energy and irrigation sectors and thanked the agency for its continued support and investment. Referring to the Kankai Irrigation Project and Chandra Canal Project, which were developed with JICA’s assistance, he stressed the importance of continuing and strengthening cooperation in the future.

Minister Shrestha also expressed gratitude for JICA’s support in the construction of the Nagdhunga Tunnel. JICA President Akihiko, who is in Nepal to attend the tunnel’s inauguration, met with the minister to discuss a range of issues of mutual interest.

During the discussions, Minister Shrestha requested JICA’s support in promoting Nepal’s “Clean and Green Energy” vision at the international level. He also informed the JICA President that a master plan for river basin development is currently being prepared and briefed him on the country’s long-term plans for the energy sector.

At the meeting, JICA President Akihiko requested the minister to facilitate the resolution of issues affecting the Tanahun Hydropower Project. In response, Minister Shrestha said the government is committed to addressing the project’s challenges.

The minister said that the expansion of transmission lines has been given high priority in the current fiscal year’s budget and that a transmission master plan is being prepared. He added that efforts are also underway to strengthen and improve the reliability of Nepal’s electricity distribution system.

Describing alternative energy as one of the key pillars of Nepal’s prosperity, Minister Shrestha said the government has prioritized the sector in its development plans. He praised the use of advanced Japanese technology in the Kulekhani Hydropower Project and invited JICA to cooperate in the development of the Nalgad Hydropower Project as well.

Recalling JICA’s support to Nepal following the devastating 2015 earthquake, Minister Shrestha expressed his appreciation and gratitude.

JICA President Akihiko said the agency is keen to further expand cooperation in Nepal’s energy sector and expressed interest in supporting new projects. He added that JICA is prepared to bring Japan’s advanced technology, expertise, and investment to Nepal’s infrastructure development.

Jalasarokar