Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is likely to travel to China on a state visit in the third week of March, according to officials involved in the preparations. 

The Chinese side has informed Nepali officials that it finds a visit starting from March 20 would be most convenient for Bejing, the officials privy to preparations told the Post.

“The visit is almost certain. We are working on agendas and a mutually convenient date,” said Gopal Khanal, foreign relations expert to PM Oli.

PM Oli had received an official invitation to visit China ahead of his India visit that concluded last Wednesday.

During the visit, which is likely to be of six days, PM Oli will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Keqiang, Foreign Minister Wang Yi and senior Chinese leaders from the Chinese Communist Party.

After landing in Beijing, PM Oli is likely to address the Boao Forum for Asia which takes place between March 22 and 25 in Hinan Province.

A free trade agreement, trade, transit and service treaty to diversify Nepal’s trade, and a deal on supply of petroleum are expected to top the agenda during the state visit. 

Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection, expediting loan agreement for Pokhara International Airport and three-day permit for Nepali citizens to enter the Chinese side of the border, instead of present one-day permit for doing business, will also be discussed with the Chinese side, according to the officials privy to visit preparations. China is also said to be keen to update Peace and Friendship Treaty1955 between the two countries, according to sources.