BUTWAL: Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Hou Yanqi, has suggested operating direct flights between Chengdu and Bhairahawa in Nepal’s Province 5.

She said that operating direct flights between Chengdu, the capital city Sichuan province of China and Bhairahawa would support in attracting Chinese tourists to Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha.

The Chinese ambassador made the suggestion during a meeting with Shanker Pokhrel, Chief Minister of Province 5, in Butwal on Wednesday. It should be noted that Sichuan and Province 5 have signed an agreement for sisterly relations.

Chief Minister Pokhrel, meanwhile, asked Ambassador Hou to forward his invitation to the Sichuan government to visit Lumbini this year.