Nepal, China deepen bilateral ties through ‘Lanting Yaji Cultural Salon’

Kathmandu – A cultural exchange program titled Lanting Yaji Cultural Salon was held in Kathmandu with the aim of further strengthening the longstanding cultural ties between Nepal and China.

The event was jointly organized by the China Cultural Center in Nepal, Nepal Academy of Fine Arts, South Asia TV Network, and other partner organizations. The program was conducted simultaneously in Nepal and China, with the Kathmandu event hosted at the China Cultural Center in Nepal and connected online with Xi’an, the historic Silk Road city in China.

Held under the theme “A New Chapter of China-Nepal Friendship Through Calligraphy,” the event brought together Nepali and Chinese artists, calligraphy enthusiasts, and painters. Activities included calligraphy and painting exhibitions, displays of traditional Chinese writing tools, lectures on art and culture, and interactive cultural experiences.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Director of the China Cultural Center in Nepal, Liu Zhanping described “Lanting Yaji” as an important global cultural exchange brand that uses calligraphy to promote Chinese culture and Eastern aesthetics around the world. Since its introduction in Nepal in 2023, the program has become an effective platform for enhancing people-to-people ties and cultural understanding between Nepal and China, he said.

He noted that art and culture transcend language and geographical boundaries, helping bring people closer together. Highlighting the historical connection between Xi’an and Kathmandu through the Silk Road, he said the event aimed to pass on centuries-old cultural traditions to new generations through calligraphy, painting, and artistic exchange.
The Deputy Director also noted that the event coincided with the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China and the 71st anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China. He said the program was organized to celebrate these important milestones while further deepening friendship through literature, art, and creative expression.

Describing Nepal and China as long-standing partners committed to peace, progress, and mutual respect, he said the Lanting Yaji program not only promotes and preserves traditional Chinese culture but also represents a vibrant new chapter in the history of Silk Road friendship between the two countries. He expressed confidence that the event would further strengthen cultural exchanges, mutual understanding, and people-to-people relations.

Participating artists showcased Chinese calligraphy, cultural performances, and creative works celebrating the friendship between Nepal and China.
Former Chancellor of the Nepal Academy of Fine Arts, Naradmani Hartamchhali, said the historical and cultural relationship between Nepal and China has always been close and that such programs help further strengthen friendship, artistic exchange, and mutual understanding between the two nations.

According to the organizers, the event sought to promote the rich artistic and cultural heritage of both countries, including traditional calligraphy and painting, while reinforcing cultural connections, mutual understanding, and friendship developed through the Silk Road.

Among those attending the event were Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Zhang Maoming, Members of the House of Representatives Sushil Khadka and Nitima Karki, President of the Nepal Olympic Committee Jivan Ram Shrestha, former Chancellor of the Nepal Academy of Fine Arts Naradmani Hartamchhali, and other distinguished guests from various sectors.