“China neighbors five out of eight SAARC countries. Therefore, its involvement in SAARC has become crucial,” the prime minister said on Wednesday. [break]
The prime minister further added that South Asian countries and China “must unite” to eradicate poverty in the region, which is home to about half of the world population.
Addressing the inaugural session of the Second Convention of China and South Asia Forum of Organizations in Kathmandu on Wednesday, the prime minister also stressed on Nepal´s interest in linking South Asia and China.
“Nepal would like to act like a vibrant bridge between these two historic regions, rather than merely playing the role of a traditional buffer state,” the prime minister said.
Altogether 30 delegates from Nepal, China, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are participating in the four-day event.
Saying that South Asia and China could work together for trade and development in the region, the prime minister stressed on the need for political zeal among leaders of the region.
Related story
As SAARC Turns Forty…
