Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda is visiting China for an eight-day official trip starting from September 23. During their meeting, Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted the significance of this visit, noting, “This is your first visit to China after your third term as Prime Minister of Nepal. I am confident that it will yield fruitful results and provide new impetus to the friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries.”
Cultural camaraderie has long been the foundation of the relationship between Nepal and China, fostering connections at both the people-to-people and state levels. The establishment of formal diplomatic ties in August 1955 was marked by a joint communique expressing hope for enhanced cultural and economic cooperation.
Historical interactions have been pivotal in strengthening these ties. In October 2019, President Xi paid a state visit to Nepal and emphasized the deep historical and cultural connections between the two nations. He reflected on the exchanges dating back over 1,600 years, citing the journeys of Chinese and Nepali monks Fa Xian and Buddhabhadra, who visited each other’s countries and collaborated on translating Buddhist scriptures into Chinese—a legacy that endures to this day.
During China’s Tang Dynasty (618-907), Nepali Princess Bhrikuti married Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, symbolizing a significant cultural and diplomatic exchange. Additionally, the Chinese monk Xuanzang visited Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha in Nepal, leaving behind valuable accounts of his pilgrimage.
The rich tapestry of cultural exchange continues through shared religious heritage. Buddhism and Hinduism, Nepal’s two largest religions, have flourished alongside these historical ties. For Hindus, Mount Kailash in China’s Xizang Autonomous Region holds immense spiritual significance as the abode of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims from Nepal, India, and around the world journey to this sacred site, underscoring China’s role as a beacon in the Hindu spiritual landscape.
The ever-increasing engagement between Nepal and China reflects their mutual appreciation of deep-rooted cultural connections. Prime Minister Prachanda’s visit is anticipated to further strengthen these bonds, fostering enhanced cooperation and understanding between the two nations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
