Power cooperation seen as key driver of regional energy integration
Nepal has called for greater collective efforts to build a robust and long-term energy partnership with Bangladesh, highlighting the growing importance of cross-border electricity trade in South Asia.
Nepal’s Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Biraj Bhakta Shrestha, on Thursday recalled the historic commencement of electricity exports from Nepal to Bangladesh in 2024. In a video message delivered at a program marking the start of the new power transmission season, he expressed confidence that energy cooperation between the two countries would continue to expand in the coming years. Report UNB
He also stressed the need for stronger joint initiatives to further deepen the bilateral energy partnership, describing it as a foundation for sustainable regional collaboration.
Speaking at the same event, senior BNP leader and Member of Parliament Abdul Moyeen Khan expressed satisfaction over the resumption and continuity of electricity flow between the two countries this year.
He said Bangladesh looks forward to expanding cooperation with Nepal in the energy sector and emphasized that such initiatives could pave the way for a broader and more coordinated regional energy framework. According to him, sustained collaboration would ensure smoother and more reliable cross-border power exchange in the future.
Additional Secretary of the Power Division under the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources of Bangladesh, KM Ali Reza, described the occasion as a reflection of the growing partnership between Nepal and Bangladesh.
He said the initiative demonstrates the vast potential of regional cooperation in the energy sector and reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to working closely with Nepal and other regional partners to advance shared energy goals.
Nepal’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, Ghanashyam Bhandari, in his welcome remarks, highlighted the deep and multifaceted relationship between the two countries.
He noted that the beginning of cross-border power flow represents not only an economic opportunity but also a shared commitment to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. Referring to Bangladesh’s rising energy demand and Nepal’s rich hydropower potential, he described the partnership as both natural and mutually beneficial.
The program, organized by the Embassy of Nepal in Dhaka, focused on the significance of cross-border electricity trade and the expanding scope of energy cooperation between Nepal and Bangladesh.
It brought together policymakers, senior government officials, business leaders, media representatives, and stakeholders from the energy sector, all of whom underscored the importance of strengthening regional energy integration for long-term stability and growth.
