Minister Kirati proposes oil and water trade between Nepal and Saudi Arabia

KATHMANDU, August 20: Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Sudan Kirati, has put forth a unique proposition during a meeting with Saudi Arabia's ambassador, Saad Abu Haimed, suggesting an exchange of resources between the two nations.

In a briefing about the Sunday meeting, Minister Kirati expressed the idea, saying, "Consider the possibility of exchanging Saudi oil for Nepal's water as a means to fortify our bilateral relationship."

Detailing the discussion points of the meeting, Minister Kirati highlighted the potential for Saudi Arabia, with its financial affluence, to invest in Nepal's water resources and tourism sector.

Furthermore, the tourism minister invited Ambassador Haimed to encourage tourists from Saudi Arabia to experience Nepal's cold wonder, Mt Everest. The minister believes such interactions could foster cultural exchange and further diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Minister Kirati also proposed the establishment of direct flight routes connecting Saudi Arabia to Nepal's Pokhara and Bhairahawa airports, aiming to facilitate more accessible travel and deeper connections between the regions.