Youth-Led Political Transformation and China’s Development Lessons Take Center Stage at Kathmandu Dialogue

Kathmandu – A high-level dialogue titled “Winds of Change: Youth-Led Political Transformation and Insights from China’s Development Experience” was successfully concluded in Kathmandu on Wednesday, bringing together scholars, policy experts, youth leaders, and professionals to discuss Nepal’s evolving political landscape and pathways for sustainable development.

The event was jointly organized by the Friends of Silk Road Club–Nepal, Nepal-China Friendship Forum, and the China–Nepal Center for Political Party Governance Studies at Hotel Barahi, Kathmandu.

The dialogue featured distinguished speakers including Prof. Dr. Arjun Kumar Baral, Executive Director of CEDA; Ms. Apekshya Shah, Assistant Professor of International Relations and Diplomacy at Tribhuvan University; Dr. Jagdish Kumar Chhetri, Director of Nepal Geriatrics Center; development professional and entrepreneur Ms. Neha Dahal; and business and community impact leader Ms. Barsha Katuwal.

Discussions focused on Nepal’s ongoing political and social transformation, with particular attention to the growing role of youth in shaping governance, public discourse, and national development priorities.

Speaking at the event, Prof. Dr. Baral emphasized that change is a continuous and inevitable process, noting that countries capable of adapting to shifting socio-political realities are better positioned to achieve long-term development. He highlighted the importance of institutional reforms and policy continuity in sustaining national progress.

Ms. Apekshya Shah described Nepal’s recent youth-led movements as a reflection of deeper concerns surrounding unemployment, economic opportunities, and governance challenges. She characterized the movement as issue-based and driven by a politically aware generation seeking meaningful change.

Drawing from his international experience, particularly in China, Dr. Jagdish Kumar Chhetri stressed the importance of clear policy direction, institutional support, and merit-based opportunities to retain talent and encourage skilled professionals to contribute within Nepal. He underscored the need for structured systems to address brain drain and strengthen national capacity.

Youth representatives Ms. Neha Dahal and Ms. Barsha Katuwal highlighted the increasing political awareness among young people, fueled by global exposure and digital connectivity. They emphasized the growing demand for transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance while recognizing that Nepal remains in an important transitional phase of reform.

A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the relevance of China’s development experience, particularly its emphasis on long-term planning, youth empowerment, rural development, and the effective balance between state guidance and market-driven growth. Speakers noted that Nepal could draw valuable lessons from these approaches while adapting them to its own democratic and socio-political context.

The dialogue also explored challenges related to migration, skills development, institutional reform, and the influence of social media on political engagement. Participants called for stronger policies that encourage youth participation, entrepreneurship, innovation, and employment opportunities within the country.

Concluding the program, speakers expressed optimism about Nepal’s future, emphasizing that strong institutions, transparent governance, and youth-inclusive policies can help the country achieve significant progress over the next decade.

The organizers reaffirmed their commitment to promoting informed dialogue, strengthening Nepal–China cooperation, and empowering young voices in shaping Nepal’s future development agenda.