China keen to increase volume of NLBT

Gangtok, Jun 6 (UNI) A four-member Chinese delegation, on its visit to Sikkim on June 3, has conveyed to Chief Minister Pawan Chamling that their government is looking forward to increase the volume of Nathu La Border Trade (NLBT).

The delegation, which left for China today, attended a two-day Sherathang trade mart at Sikkim and Donqingang trade mart at Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR).

Official sources here today said the delegation, led by Bu Jianguo, Minister Counsellor, Embassy of the People's Republic of China in India, had called on the Chief Minster at his official residence yesterday.

According to an official release here, Ms Jianguo had informed Mr Chamling that their government does not have any restriction as far as the items of trade are concerned adding that they want to increase the trade volume along with friendship, cooperation and understanding between both the countries.

Ms Jianguo said the purpose of their visit to Sikkim and TAR was to study the NLBT and survey the items of trade feasible to be included in the expanded list.

She further stated that to make Nathu La trade a success and to materialise the demands of the traders of both the countries, she has invited the state commerce minister to initiate a dialogue with the Chinese counterpart.

She also added that both Sikkim and China should explore the possibility of tourism via Nathu La border and there is an urgent necessity of having a good infrastructure like hotels and warehouse facility.

Mr Chamling had assured the delegates that he would convey their message to the concerned authorities at the Centre and work towards the benefit of the traders of both the country.

He also expressed his keenness over the promotion of tourism and towards starting a bus service from Gangtok to Lhasa, if approved by the Centre.

The chief minister further added that efforts were on to improve the existing infrastructure.

''Newer commodities which are of use to both the countries requires to be included in the trading list and outdated ones should be discarded, Mr Chamling told the Chinese delegates.

He said with reopening of the NLBT, the Sino-Indo relationship would get better.

UNI