In a landmark event symbolizing 70 years of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China, a joint expedition led by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) and China has successfully scaled Luodu Peak, located in Lhasa, China. The historic ascent marks a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the two countries, especially in the fields of mountaineering, adventure sports, and diplomatic outreach.
The Nepali delegation, led by NMA Chief Advisor Mr. Ang Tshering Sherpa and 2nd Vice President Mr. Ang Dawa Sherpa, returned to Nepal on a high note after the triumphant summit and active participation in various celebratory programs organized to commemorate the occasion. Their achievement not only showcases the strength of Nepal’s mountaineering expertise but also highlights the deepening of Nepal-China bilateral relations through mutual respect and shared ambitions.
Upon their arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the team received a warm and respectful welcome from high-ranking NMA officials. President Mr. Nima Nuru Sherpa, Senior Vice President Mr. Thakur Raj Pandey, General Secretary Mr. Mohan Lamsal, and Advisor Mr. Mingma Sherpa were present at the airport to greet the returning climbers, reflecting the national significance of the expedition.
The expedition was led on the ground by Mr. Ang Dawa Sherpa, who played a pivotal role in opening the route to the summit of Luodu Peak. Beyond the successful climb of Luodu peak, Mr. Sherpa also provided crucial assistance in rescuing fellow climbers during the journey, demonstrating leadership and commitment to safety core values of the Nepali mountaineering legacy.
The joint climb was organized by China in coordination with the NMA, symbolizing unity and a shared passion for the Himalayas. Nepal and China first established diplomatic ties on August 1, 1955. As the 70th anniversary of this relationship approaches on August 1, 2025, this expedition sets the tone for a series of events and collaborative initiatives to come. NMA President Mr. Nima Nuru Sherpa emphasized the significance of this joint undertaking. “We have a long history of collaboration in the mountaineering sector,” said President Sherpa. “This expedition and continued cooperation have strengthened our ties even more. It’s a proud moment for both nations.”
This successful climb is not an isolated event but a result of strategic planning and formal agreements. During a previous visit to Tibet, China, NMA President Mr. Sherpa signed an Exchange and Cooperation Framework Agreement with the Sports Federation of the Xizang Autonomous Region of China. The agreement laid the foundation for joint activities, including mountaineering expeditions such as this. Chief Advisor Mr. Ang Tshering Sherpa believes that this mission will be remembered as a defining moment in the history of Himalayan expeditions. “China has made remarkable progress in various sectors.
However, in mountaineering, Nepal has always held a leading position. This time, we not only participated but led the entire expedition. It’s a strong testament to our expertise, and this will leave a lasting legacy,” he stated. Echoing the sentiments, 2nd Vice President Mr. Ang Dawa Sherpa expressed great satisfaction with the expedition and the spirit of partnership. “We had a truly great experience and created wonderful memories together. I am hopeful that this expedition will act as a bridge to further strengthen the relationship between Nepal and China,” he said.
This expedition serves not only as a celebration of shared diplomatic history but also as a call for more extensive collaboration in tourism, cultural exchange, and environmental preservation. As both countries are home to some of the world’s most iconic mountain ranges, such joint expeditions pave the way for sustainable adventure tourism and global cooperation. With preparations underway to mark the official 70th anniversary of Nepal-China diplomatic relations in 2025, the success of the Luodu Peak expedition has set a positive and inspiring precedent. It is a symbol of what can be achieved when nations come together with mutual respect, vision, and cooperation.
