Kathmandu, April 21 -- Visiting Assistant Secretary of State Samir Paul Kapur has told the Nepali authorities that the United States would encourage more direct investment in Nepal, provided that the country creates a conducive environment for the same.

Kapur, who arrived on a three-day visit, held talks with Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle and Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal on Tuesday, discussing the priorities of the Balendra Shah government.

In separate meetings with the US official, both ministers requested more investment from the United States, which, they said, would be instrumental in jobs creation and Nepal's economic progress. They also pledged to amend laws and introduce new legislation and regulations to support foreign direc...