Nepal-China ties transform landlocked nation into land-linked hub: Former President Bhandari

May 30, Kathmandu: Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari stated that mutual understanding between Nepal and China had significantly contributed to establishing landlocked Nepal as a land-linked nation. She described the bilateral relationship as a historic milestone.

Addressing the fourth Dialogue on Exchanges and Mutual Learning Among Civilisations in Dunhuang, Gansu Province, China, Bhandari praised Chinese President Xi Jinping’s concept of a “community with a shared future.” She noted that it had laid a strong foundation for the Nepal-China strategic partnership.

Recalling President Xi’s historic visit to Nepal in October 2019, Bhandari said it had transformed the bilateral relationship into a shared journey of development and prosperity. She also mentioned her own visit to China that year, where she addressed the second Belt and Road Forum.

Bhandari discussed China’s Global Civilisation Initiative, expressing confidence that it would promote understanding, mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and collaboration among diverse cultures and civilisations.

She emphasised that respecting cultures created pathways for openness and partnership, adding that sensitivity to challenges faced by people from different cultural backgrounds was a key aspect.

Highlighting the struggles of many people worldwide to escape extreme poverty, Bhandari expressed hope that such dialogues would help address structural issues and assist the global community in overcoming challenges.

Concluding her address, she extended congratulations and best wishes from Nepal, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, to all organisers and participants.