KATHMANDU, April 29 (Xinhua) -- China's efforts to steer towards green economy will encourage other countries to follow the same footsteps, Nepali Minister for Forest and Environment Shakti Basnet said here on Sunday.
The minister's remarks came on the same day when the world's largest International Horticultural Exhibition 2019 kicked off in Beijing under the theme "Live Green, Live Better", attracting the participation of 110 countries and international organizations.
Talking exclusively with Xinhua, the Nepali minister appreciated the way China has led in promoting green development and supporting ecologically sensitive development.
"For country like China which is moving ahead economically and growing as a global power, the way the Chinese leadership has raised the issue of green economy, it's a positive aspect and in today's need," the minister said.
Stating that China's green economy will contribute to policy formation, technological development and the enhancement of people's livelihood, Basnet said that the concept will persuade other countries, especially neighboring countries in the region, to adopt sustainable green economy and save mother nature.
"Climate change and its adverse impacts are increasing particularly in this region, so the Himalayan-range countries should be more serious and sensitive towards the issue," he said.
The minister is of the view that countries should work together to pursue harmony between human and nature, to maintain ecological balance and to improve the livelihoods of all human beings.
"Nepal is now in the phase of developing infrastructures, which is our national priority. Thus, we are trying to build environment-friendly infrastructures which will make lives easier and happier.
Forests cover 45 percent of the total area of Nepal, and the country has adopted a popular statement of "Green Forest is Nepal's Wealth." The minister said that forest could be a major component of Nepal's prosperity.
"Environment protection, greenery promotion and sustainable development are the important base of our national vision of Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali," Basnet stated.
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