China announces donation for Nalanda University

Patna, Jan 21 (ANI): Chinese Ambassador to India, Zhang Yan has announced one billion US dollar aid for the reconstruction of Nalanda University.

Yan made the announcement after meeting Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar here on Thursday.

"Nalanda University is under the reconstruction. Chinese government has donated one billion US dollars, to support the reconstruction of the Nalanda University," Yan told reporters.

"I will visit the University and discuss with the chancellor or vice-chancellor, how two sides can cooperate with each other to make this project very successful work," he added.

Yan encouraged cultural exchange between Bihar and China other than showing keen interest in the development of the state's agriculture and industry.

"Chinese side is very interested to develop co-operations with the state in many areas, especially in the agricultural industry as well as in infrastructure. Furthermore, we want to develop country exchanges with the state of Bihar," said Yan.

The Nalanda University Bill, 2010, will help begin a Central university in Nalanda district, on the lines of the ancient university, which was founded during the 5th century A.D and became a centre of learning for students from across South and East Asia.

Singapore, China, India, Japan, had announced a proposed plan to restore and revive the ancient University as Nalanda International University in 2006. (ANI)