KATHMANDU, June 17: Russia has expressed readiness to assist in reviving Nepal’s long-shuttered state-owned industries, saying it is prepared to extend support once the Government of Nepal submits a formal proposal.
Russian Ambassador to Nepal Alexey Vladimirovich Surovtsev conveyed this position during a courtesy call on Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav on Wednesday. He noted that Moscow is keen to further strengthen Nepal–Russia ties and expand cooperation in hydropower, agriculture, healthcare, and physical infrastructure.
The envoy specifically mentioned that Russia would immediately engage in efforts to restore long-idle industrial establishments such as the Birgunj Sugar Factory and the Janakpur Cigarette Factory, provided Nepal formally requests assistance with a list of priorities.
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Observers view the proposal as a potential opportunity to revive Nepal’s inactive industrial base at a time when domestic economic activity has been under strain. Russia’s interest in industry, infrastructure, and energy cooperation has been regarded as significant in this context.
During the meeting, both sides also discussed the 70-year-long diplomatic relations between Nepal and Russia and explored prospects for expanding mutual cooperation in the future.
