KATHMANDU - Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the construction of a mega hydropower plant during a visit to Nepal Friday, part of his government's move to counter Chinese influence in its backyard. Nepali Prime Minister K.P Sharma Oli greets Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has cast his visit as part of his "neighbourhood first" policyModi and his Nepali counterpart K.P. Along with employment opportunities, this project will create economic and commercial opportunities in Nepal," Modi said in Kathmandu following the inauguration. Oli, then serving his first term as prime minister, won huge public support as he stoked nationalist anti-India sentiment over the blockade. Modi began his Nepal visit in the southern city of Janakpur where he offered prayers at a renowned Hindu temple.

Source: Bangkok Post May 11, 2018 17:37 UTC