SATV Feb 21, Pokhara: The grand celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of Nepal-China diplomatic relations and the Chinese New Year concluded in Pokhara on February 20th. The event included a series of cultural programs, including the Nepal-China Spring Festival Gala, which brought together diverse artistic performances in the picturesque city.

The event, held in the presence of key figures such as Pokhara Metropolitan City Deputy Mayor Manju Devi Gurung, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Chinese Embassy in Nepal Wang Xin, former Minister of Energy in Gandaki Province Bed Bahadur Gurung, President of the Nepal-China Friendship Association Bishwa shankar Palikhe, and others, emphasized the enduring friendship between the two nations, symbolized by the majestic Himalayas that mark their border.

In her address, Deputy Mayor Gurung highlighted the long-standing cordial relationship between Nepal and China, especially noting Pokhara's sister-city ties with several Chinese cities. She emphasized the importance of strengthening these bonds, particularly through tourism, by attracting more Chinese visitors to Nepal. She also remarked on the significance of celebrating the Spring Festival in Pokhara, a city known for its rich cultural and Natural heritage, noting that it marked a milestone for Nepal-China relations and tourism development.

Wang Xin, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Chinese Embassy in Nepal, expressed his happiness at celebrating the Chinese New Year in Nepal’s renowned tourist city, Pokhara. Reflecting on the growing collaboration between the two nations, he highlighted the recent signing of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) framework during Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's visit to China. He firmly believed that the partnership between Nepal and China had reached new heights, symbolizing the strength of their ties.

The event also featured engaging cultural performances, with a standout performance by the renowned young artist Bai Ma Lamu, who performed the song Tasi Delek. Additionally, beautiful performances from the Shannan art troupe of the Sichuan Autonomous Region in China added to the festive atmosphere.

Overall, the series of events celebrating the Spring Festival and the 70th anniversary of Nepal-China relations showcased the deepening friendship between the two nations. This celebration, coupled with the recent BRI framework agreement, clearly underscores the strengthening of Nepal-China ties, particularly in the cultural and tourism sectors.