SATV | 20 May, Kathmandu – Marking 70 years of diplomatic relations, Nepal and China reaffirmed their commitment to a stronger strategic partnership during a high-level seminar held in Kathmandu today. The event, titled "Review of and Prospects for Nepal-China Strategic Partnership of Cooperation," highlighted shared economic goals, regional stability and long-term collaboration.

The event, jointly organized by Nepal’s Policy Research Institute (PRI) and China’s National Institute of International Strategy (Chinese Academy of Social Sciences) was attended by high-level dignitaries, including Amrit Bahadur Rai, Secretary of Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Wang Xin, Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) at the Chinese Embassy in Nepal.

Discussions centered on economic cooperation, infrastructure development, and Nepal’s transition from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, with both sides emphasizing mutual trust and shared prosperity.

Foreign Secretary Rai praised China’s unwavering assistance in infrastructure, trade, and disaster relief, calling it a "dependable partner for Nepal’s development." He stressed the need for continued Chinese investment to help Nepal achieve its LDC graduation goals.

DCM Wang Xin reaffirmed China’s "neighborhood-first" policy, stating that Nepal remains a priority in China’s diplomatic engagements. He highlighted the success of the Sagarmatha Sambaad as proof of Nepal’s growing role in regional dialogue and connectivity.

The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Nepali and Chinese research institutions was hailed as a major milestone.

Participants agreed that such exchanges will enhance policy coordination, academic cooperation, and people-to-people ties.

Experts at the seminar noted that Nepal-China relations are entering a new phase of strategic depth, with potential collaborations in:

Trade & Connectivity: Expanding cross-border infrastructure (railways, roads, digital networks)

Energy & Environment: Hydropower partnerships and climate resilience initiatives

Security & Diplomacy: Joint efforts for regional stability in South Asia

As Nepal seeks to reclaim its historical role as a trade hub, strengthening ties with China could be pivotal for its economic future.