China's State councillor in Nepal

Kathmandu, Mar 16 (UNI) State Councillor of the People's Republic of China Tang Jiaxuan arrived here today for a three-day official visit.

''I came here for friendship between China and your country,'' Mr Jiaxuan told journalists at the Tribhuvan International Airport asked the purpose of his visit.

He is scheduled to meet King Gyanendra, leaders of political parties and officials during his visit to the Himalayan Kingdom.

The Chinese official left for Lumbini, the birth place of Lord Buddha, soon after his arrival.

Mr Jiaxuan's visit was postponed last month. China has been the major supplier of arms after the King's coup in February last year as India, the US and the UK suspended military aid.to Nepal.

UNI XC AK DB1824