SATV Kathmandu, January 18: The Nepal Tourism Year 2025 inauguration and Chinese New Year celebrations began with a vibrant cultural showcase at the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The event, co-organized by the Chinese Embassy in Nepal, Nepal's Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Nepal Tourism Board, and Bhaktapur Municipality, featured various cultural exhibitions and performances from both Nepal and China.

The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of notable dignitaries, including Nepal's Minister for Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, Deepak Khadka,Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, His Excellency Chen Song, Mayor of Bhaktapur, Sunil Prajapati, and Chief Executive Officer of Nepal Tourism Board, Deepak Raj Joshi, among others.

The event featured performances by Nepali school students, cultural groups, and Chinese artists, including traditional lion and dragon dances, which captivated the audience. Additionally, Nepalese traditional lion dances and instrumental performances added to the grandeur of the celebration.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Deepak Khadka emphasized the long-standing friendship between Nepal and China, highlighting China's support during Nepal’s challenging times. Celebrating 70 years of Nepal-China diplomatic relations, he expressed optimism for the enduring bond between the two nations and underscored the potential of attracting more Chinese tourists as a key driver for Nepal's tourism sector. He affirmed the government's commitment to making the tourism year successful.

Chinese Ambassador Chen Song highlighted the significance of the Nepal Tourism Year 2025 campaign as a means to deepen cultural exchanges and mutual cooperation between the two countries. "We warmly welcome Nepal’s efforts to promote the tourism year in China and will encourage more Chinese tourists to visit Nepal," said Ambassador Song, expressing his belief in strengthening cultural ties.

Mayor Sunil Prajapati of Bhaktapur Municipality expressed pride in co-hosting such a significant event, emphasizing Bhaktapur's status as a cultural treasure of Nepal. He acknowledged China's vital support in rebuilding heritage sites damaged during the 2015 earthquake and extended warm wishes for the success of Nepal Tourism Year 2025 and the Chinese New Year celebrations.

The event's highlight was the mesmerizing lion dance performance by a Chinese troupe, with acrobatic displays on iron poles that left the audience enthralled. The show evoked imagery of a real lion entertaining the crowd. The celebration also included a group of 70 Nepali students playing traditional drums, commemorating 70 years of Nepal-China relations, and various musical and cultural activities that added charm to the occasion.

 The program marked a significant milestone in fostering deeper cultural and diplomatic ties between Nepal and China, with both nations looking forward to enhancing mutual tourism and collaboration in the years to come along with the footstep to the success of Nepal Tourism Year 2025.