Chinese Experts Begin Study on Prospects for Oil, Gas in Nepal

Chinese experts have commenced study on prospects for minerals, gas and oil at Shreesthan in Dailekh, a western district of Nepal, according to Indo Asian News Service (IANS).

The Nepalese government has allowed China to explore for hydrocarbons in the country after a gap of almost two decades.

Six Chinese experts are involved in the feasibility study on all 10 petroleum blocks, IANS reported citing a government statement.

The team is expected to take about a month to present its findings.

Earlier this year, Nepal and China signed an agreement regarding the matter when Nepalese Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli visited Beijing.

Under the agreement, China was also to help in the construction of at least three petroleum reservoirs in Nepal, IANS reported.

China will also extend technical and financial help to Nepal in exploration.