The two major transit routes at the northern border with China will be developed as ‘Green Economic Corridor’ (GEC).

Nepal and China have reached an agreement for the initiative to develop ‘Tatopani – Jammu’ and ‘Rasuwagadhi – Kerung’ transit routes as the GEC, said Minister for Forest and Soil Conservation, Agni Prasad Sapkota.

During a visit to China at the invitation of Chinese Forest Administration Minister, Minister Sapkota broached the concept of Green Corridor to remain alert towards negative consequences on the environment from increasing economic activity with the burgeoning Chinese support to Nepal. Minister Sapkota had the China visit from January 10 to 16.

According to the Ministry, a technical taskforce that constitutes of Forest Ministry’s Joint Secretary Bishwonath Oli and Chinese Forest Ministry’s Deputy General Director as coordinators has been formed for immediate beginning of the works in line with GEC scheme.

Nepal and China had reached a bilateral agreement in June, 2010 on forest and biodiversity conservations followed by regular discussions among the top officials of the two countries.

The two countries have also reached an agreement to take steps in curtailing illegal transaction of wildlife and other animals found in Nepal-China border areas.

Nepal to provide two rhinos to China.

The Chinese government has asked for a rhino couple for comprehensive research. Minister Sapkota said he expressed commitment for utmost support to the Chinese government in this regard citing that Nepal has always been asking for support with China.