KATHMANDU: Ambassador Chen Song delivered a comprehensive speech during the traditional Chinese New Year Spring Festival celebration in Kathmandu on Thursday evening.
The event was attended by Nepali politicians, ministers, diplomats, and high-ranking officials, with Speaker Devraj Ghimire serving as the chief guest.
Although the ambassador refrained from making overt political remarks, his address emphasized China’s growing engagement with Nepal, especially following the signing of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Cooperation Framework on December 4.
Ambassador Chen highlighted China’s advancements in technology, artificial intelligence, and clean energy, emphasizing that Nepal stands to benefit from these innovations. He described Nepal-China relations as a “campaign for human development” through the exchange of civilizations.
He also pointed out China’s progress in lunar research and linked it metaphorically to the deepening ties between the two countries.
Chen called the BRI Framework Agreement a “right step at the right time,” highlighting its role in establishing a three-dimensional connectivity network between Nepal and China. He revealed that 14 border crossings have been opened, with progress underway on cross-border railways and power transmission lines.
“The construction of the Hilsa-Simkot Highway and Tokha-Chhahare Tunnel is gaining momentum,” he said. He also noted that there are now 48 weekly flights between Kathmandu and Chinese cities.
The ambassador discussed the “Three Places, Three Brands” initiative, which includes cultural festivals and tourism promotions to strengthen Nepal-China ties.
Major events under this initiative include a spring festival in Kathmandu, the China-Nepal friendship dragon boat race and international mountain cross-country race in Pokhara and the Lumbini International Peace Festival
He also highlighted China’s contributions, such as constructing a school in Dolakha and a hospital in Sindhupalchowk, to support Nepal’s development.
Ambassador Chen highlighted the growing presence of Chinese entrepreneurs in Nepal and the increasing export of Nepali goods to China. He expressed optimism about the future of trade and tourism between the two nations.
“The Spring Festival is not just a cultural celebration for overseas Chinese,” he said, “but also a bridge for civilizational exchange and mutual understanding.”
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