Nepal showcases investment and tourism opportunities in Lhasa, Seeks stronger economic partnership with China

Kathmandu-The Consulate General of Nepal in Lhasa organized a high-level event to promote Nepal’s trade, tourism and investment potential, bringing together Chinese government officials, investors, business leaders and tourism stakeholders to strengthen bilateral economic cooperation.

Held at the Shangri-La Hotel in Lhasa, the program was chaired by Consul General Laxmi Prasad Niraula and attended by Zhao Peng, Executive Vice Chairman of the People’s Government of China’s Xizang Autonomous Region, as the chief guest. A total of 113 participants, including senior officials from various government departments, Chinese investors, business representatives, tourism entrepreneurs and members of the Nepali business community in Lhasa, took part in the event.

The program featured presentations and promotional videos highlighting Nepal’s trade, tourism and investment opportunities. Vice Consul Diksha Mahat moderated the event, while Consul Sabin Bhattarai delivered a detailed presentation on Nepal’s economic potential.

Addressing the gathering, Executive Vice Chairman Zhao Peng praised the Consulate General for its efforts in strengthening Nepal-China relations. He described Nepal as China’s trusted friend and reaffirmed that both countries continue to respect each other’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence.

Peng said the Xizang government remains committed to extending all necessary support to Nepal and its Consulate General in Lhasa. Recalling his recent visit to Nepal and meetings with the country’s Foreign Minister and other senior officials, he said the visit had further strengthened bilateral ties. He also encouraged Chinese businesses and tourists to explore investment and travel opportunities in Nepal, describing the country as peaceful, beautiful and friendly toward China.

In his remarks, Consul General Niraula thanked the Xizang government, the Foreign Affairs Office and all participants for supporting the event. He said the strong participation reflected growing Chinese interest in Nepal’s economic opportunities and expressed confidence that the program would contribute to expanding trade, tourism and investment between the two countries.

Niraula also thanked the Chinese government and people for their longstanding cooperation with Nepal. He highlighted the centuries-old historical and cultural relationship between Nepal and Tibet, dating back to Princess Bhrikuti and the renowned artist Araniko, and reiterated Nepal’s firm commitment to the One China Policy, assuring that Nepali territory would never be used against any friendly nation.

Prior to the event, Consul General Niraula held a courtesy meeting with Executive Vice Chairman Zhao Peng, during which both sides discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation.

During the meeting, Niraula requested greater facilitation of cross-border trade and movement, improved infrastructure at border points, easier visa and Tibet travel permit procedures for Nepali citizens, and support for Nepali businesses operating in Tibet. He also sought Chinese assistance in restoring the historic Saraswati Temple in Lhasa and the Bhimsen Temple in Shigatse, both of which hold significant cultural and historical value.

Responding to the requests, Zhao Peng reaffirmed China’s readiness to strengthen border management cooperation and said efforts would be made to support the restoration of the two historic temples. He also stated that China is prepared to construct a permanent bridge over the border river at Rasuwagadhi and is awaiting Nepal’s response to move the project forward.