Tourism stakeholders from Nepal and China have emphasized the need for stronger partnerships and deeper collaboration to boost tourism exchanges, cultural understanding, and shared learning between the two neighbouring countries.
The call was made during the “2026 China Tourism Day Joint Promotion and China Southern Airlines Appreciation Event” organized in Kathmandu on Tuesday evening by the China National Tourist Office, China Cultural Centre, and China Southern Airlines.
Speakers at the event highlighted that tourism is not only about travel but also about learning, exchange of ideas, cultural sharing, and gaining new experiences. They noted that Nepal and China have immense potential to cooperate in tourism promotion and people-to-people connectivity.
Tourism as a Bridge Between Nations
Addressing the gathering, Liu Zhanping said tourism serves as an important platform for strengthening close and pragmatic cooperation between Nepal and China. He stated that the objective of the programme was to further promote tourism cooperation, cultural exchanges, and personnel connectivity while allowing people from both countries to experience the unique tourism charm of each destination.
Liu expressed happiness that Nepal has become an increasingly popular destination for Chinese tourists and said China is also eager to welcome more Nepali visitors to experience the country’s culture, heritage, and development.
According to him, tourism has become an integral part of modern life, allowing people to connect with nature, appreciate cultural diversity, and escape daily stress. He added that tourism also promotes mutual understanding, friendship, and civilized exchanges among different communities and nations.
Nepal and China Showcase Tourism Attractions
During the programme, Sunil Sharma delivered a presentation highlighting Nepal’s diverse tourism products and destinations. He invited international travellers to visit Nepal and experience its breathtaking landscapes, peaceful environment, rich biodiversity, and unique cultural heritage.
Similarly, Zhao Pengjie presented detailed information about China’s major tourism destinations and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. His presentation featured Chinese cultural, religious, and natural heritage attractions, including Mount Kailash, Potala Palace, Terracotta Army Museum, and Forbidden City, along with information about Chinese cuisine and traditions.
Zhao also shared that China Tourism Day has been celebrated annually on May 19 since 2011 in honour of legendary Chinese traveller and geographer Xu Xiake, whose journeys across mountains and rivers inspired generations of explorers and travellers.
China Southern Airlines Stresses Aviation Connectivity
Speaking at the event, Yang Wenfu expressed happiness over the growing cultural exchanges and tourism cooperation between Nepal and China. He stated that the airline has been actively promoting tourism destinations of both countries while strengthening air connectivity to facilitate tourism, business, and people-to-people exchanges.
Yang said the airline aims to provide a more convenient “air bridge” for tourism cooperation, trade relations, and cultural connectivity between Nepal and China. He also expressed hope for continued partnership and mutually beneficial cooperation in the tourism and aviation sectors.
High-Level Participation and Agency Awards
The event was attended by senior officials and representatives from the tourism, aviation, and business sectors of both countries. Among the attendees were Deo Chandra Lal Karn, Tek Nath Sitaula, and Hikmat Singh Ayer, along with diplomats, tourism entrepreneurs, travel agencies, and business community leaders. During the programme, the top 10 agencies associated with China Southern Airlines in Nepal were also honoured with awards for their contribution to tourism promotion and travel partnership.
