Nepal, China Hold Talks on Innovation Centers, AI Collaboration, and Scientific Research

 

Kathmandu. Minister for Science, Technology, and Innovation Mahabir Pun and Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Zhang Maoming held a meeting at the ministry on Wednesday, during which China expressed interest in expanding investment and cooperation in Nepal's technology and innovation sector.

During the meeting, Ambassador Maoming said China currently invests 2.8 percent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in research and development. He noted that, as China pursues its goal of becoming a global technology leader, it is willing to share its experience and expertise to support Nepal’s technological development.

The ambassador also handed over a document outlining China's upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030) to Minister Pun, stating that Nepal could benefit from the strategy and lessons learned from its implementation.

The key agenda was the development of innovation centers in Nepal. According to Minister Pun, although Nepal and China had agreed in 2023 to cooperate in science and technology, little tangible progress had been made. Both sides agreed to expedite the formation of a joint task force to move the agreement forward and give it concrete shape.

The discussions also prioritized cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation. In addition, the two sides explored collaboration in biotechnology, high-altitude regions, medicinal herb research, climate change, and environmental studies.

Minister Pun said discussions were also held on the possibility of China sharing satellite data with Nepal, particularly for ecological and environmental monitoring purposes.

The meeting further explored training and exchange programs to enhance the capabilities of Nepali researchers and scientists. Minister Pun expressed confidence that Nepal could benefit significantly from China's experience and long-term strategy in science, technology, and innovation.

पछिल्लो अध्यावधिक: असार ११, २०८३ १२:२०

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