China Foundation for Rural Development marks 10th anniversary in Nepal

Kathmandu, Aug 19: The China Foundation for Rural Development (CFRD) celebrated its 10th anniversary in Nepal by organising a special event in Kathmandu on Monday.

The event was attended by the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Nepal Chen Song, Executive Director of China Foundation for Rural Development Chen Hongtao, former ministers, leaders of major political parties, diplomats and several others. On the occasion, Chinese Ambassador Chen appreciated the CFRD’s contributions to Nepal’s rural development, education, and disaster relief.

He emphasised that the milestone celebration also reflects the enduring friendship between China and Nepal during the historic 70th year of diplomatic relations. He said, “China is committed to continuing collaboration in sustainable development initiatives, humanitarian assistance, and community-focused programmes in Nepal, emphasising the importance of cooperation for long-term prosperity and shared development goals.”

Similarly, Nanda Lal Majhi, the Vice-Chairperson of the Social Welfare Council of Nepal, noted that CFRD’s initiatives in education, agriculture, and community development have not only provided immediate support but have also built long-term capacities within communities. Likewise, Executive Director of the CFRD Chen Hongtao said this celebration is about reaffirming our shared commitment to building a more inclusive and resilient future for rural communities in Nepal.

Its commitment to integrating China’s poverty reduction experience with Nepal’s local development needs, continuing to foster sustainable growth and strengthen people-to-people ties between the two nations, he added. On the occasion, Kimtang’s Tea Project from Nuwakot district; Khokana and Gotikhel villages of Lalitpur district signed separate agreements with three cooperatives from China’s Sichuan Province on knowledge sharing and exchanges on agriculture.

The signing agreement was witnessed by the Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song, and former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Sujata Koirala, among others. It is said that the agreement is aimed at deepening agricultural cooperation and rural revitalization by linking Nepalese villages with successful Chinese cooperatives.

The CFRD has been supporting Nepal’s villages in sustainable rural development, advancing education, promoting livelihoods, and improving community well-being. During the event, a research publication documenting the CFRD’s decade-long journey in Nepal, recognition and appreciation of NGO partners, and exhibition stalls showcasing products made by women beneficiaries of the Women’s Occupational Support program and accomplishments of several comprehensive projects of CFRD in Nepal, according to the CFRD.

The Country Director of CFRD Nepal Office Zou Zhiqiang, mayors and deputies of different local levels, representatives of the UN agencies in Nepal, and others also attended the event.