Successful Conclusion of Chinese Language Training for Nepalese Tourism Professionals
Kathmandu: The 7th Chinese Language Training Course for Nepalese tourism professionals concluded on Friday with a formal closing ceremony at the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Auditorium, marking another milestone in Nepal–China tourism and cultural cooperation.
The six-month training program was organized with the support of the Chinese government and implemented through collaboration among the Chinese Embassy in Nepal, Nepal Tourism Board, and the Nepal China Cultural and Educational Council. This year, 47 Nepali tourism professionals were awarded certificates upon successful completion of the course.
Since its inception, the program has been conducted annually, training more than 50 participants each year and equipping nearly 300 Nepali tourism professionals with Chinese language skills across seven batches. The initiative was launched following a bilateral assistance agreement signed during the visit of then Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ to China and his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The closing ceremony was attended by senior officials from both countries, including His Excellency Zhou Pan, Minister Counselor and Deputy Chief of Mission at the Chinese Embassy in Nepal; Mr. Ram Krishna Lamichhane, Director General of the Department of Tourism; and Mr. Hikmat Singh Ayer, Officiating CEO of the Nepal Tourism Board.
Addressing the ceremony, Zhou Pan highlighted that learning the Chinese language opens access to the world’s largest tourism market and strengthens Nepal’s tourism economy. He noted that 2025 marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nepal, coincides with “Nepal Tourism Year 2025,” and aligns with Nepal’s 10-year Tourism Plan (2023–2032). Emphasizing tourism as a bridge between civilizations, he described tourism professionals as “natural diplomats” fostering people-to-people ties.
Director General Ram Krishna Lamichhane stressed that Chinese language proficiency is vital for welcoming the growing number of Chinese visitors and achieving the government’s tourism targets.
Dr. Harish Shah, Chairman of NCCEC, underlined the global importance of the Chinese language in trade and tourism, while Robin Regmi, Senior Officer at NTB, noted that the initiative is part of NTB’s ongoing capacity-building efforts, benefiting not only tourism but also trade and broader economic cooperation.
NTB Senior Director Hikmat Singh Ayer reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to continuing the program, stating that skilled, language-proficient human resources are key to strengthening Nepal’s tourism services.
Graduates showcased their newly acquired Chinese language skills through cultural performances and martial arts demonstrations, drawing appreciation from the dignitaries present.
The program is expected to further strengthen Nepal–China relations by enhancing professional capacity, promoting tourism growth, and deepening cultural and economic collaboration between the two nations.
