The all-round development of China brings opportunities to its neighbors, said Nepalese Foreign Minister Ramesh Nath Pandey at the Chinese Institute of International Studies in Beijing Wednesday.

In a speech titled "Nepal's Foreign Policy and Nepal-China Relations," Pandey said he was delighted to see China's comprehensive progress and emergence as a powerhouse in the international arena.

Many developing countries, including Nepal, look to China as an attractive model of rapid economic growth and a stability, confidence, and reliability, he said.

During his visit to China, Pandey and Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing signed a series of cooperation documents concerning economy and trade, trans-frontier pasture and mutual visa simplification. Nepal is to build North-South highways, offering a transport passage between China and India.

Pandey said in his speech that China's Special Economic Zones (SEZ) are worth emulating. The establishment of SEZ's in appropriate locations in Nepal will help attract much needed foreign investment. Cooperation on water resources, information and communication technology will also benefit both countries, he added.

He acknowledged that understanding, good will and trust have been the pillars of Nepal-China relations. The two nations are celebrating this year -- the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

"Our relationship with China can be best described as an all-weather relationship free from any troubles and irritants," Pandey said.

(Xinhua News Agency August 18, 2005)