Nepal Opens Border Crossing to China, Facilitating Trade and Travel

The Korla Pass, a crucial border crossing connecting Nepal with Tibet, China, is set to see significant improvements with the establishment of an immigration office ahead of the Dashain festival. This development aims to facilitate smooth travel and trade between the two countries. The Department of Immigration is actively working on setting up the immigration office at the pass to manage the increasing flow of people and goods, as confirmed by Chief District Officer Janakraj Pant. Prior to this, the office had repeatedly requested the Ministry of Home Affairs to establish an immigration facility at Korla Pass, emphasizing its importance for promoting economic activity and collaboration between Nepal and China. The ministry has responded positively to the proposal and plans to establish the immigration office soon. The new immigration office will play a vital role in recording the movement of Nepalese citizens traveling to China for shopping and will also help in streamlining the documentation process for import and export of goods. The Korla Pass, which was closed for four consecutive years due to COVID-19, reopened partially last year. Initially, only citizens from the Lo Manthang and Lo Ghekar Damodar Kund municipalities in Upper Mustang were allowed to cross the border. This year, the authorities have expanded the access to include residents of other municipalities in Mustang, further promoting cross-border movement and trade.