Nepal Invites UAE Investment in Budhigandaki Hydropower Project

Nepal has invited the United Arab Emirates to invest in the Budhigandaki Hydropower Project as part of broader efforts to expand bilateral economic cooperation between the two nations. The formal proposal was delivered on Saturday during a courtesy meeting held in Abu Dhabi between visiting Home Minister Sudhan Gurung and UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi.

Discussions during the meeting encompassed bilateral trade, investment opportunities, and economic cooperation. According to Gurung’s secretariat, the visiting minister also proposed expanding cooperation into Nepal's agriculture and service sectors, alongside security technology. Both sides exchanged views on modernizing security agencies and increasing the use of technology within the security sector.

Nepal has invited the UAE to invest in the Budhigandaki Hydropower Project.

Furthermore, Gurung’s secretariat confirmed that both sides welcomed the proposal to exchange formal investment proposals for various projects in Nepal. Officials agreed to take necessary steps to move these initiatives forward and explore additional avenues for collaboration. Home Minister Gurung had departed for Dubai on Friday to attend the ongoing World Police Summit.

Why it matters

This high-level diplomatic outreach between Nepal and the UAE opens new pathways for foreign direct investment in key infrastructure, agriculture, and technology sectors within South Asia. By seeking partnerships for major ventures like the Budhigandaki Hydropower Project, Nepal aims to boost its economic development and strengthen bilateral ties with Gulf nations.