2025.04.21
Beijing, April 21, 2025 – The Embassy of Nepal in China hosted the Nepal Food Festival 2025 in Beijing on Monday, drawing diplomats, government officials, and tourism industry leaders. The event featured a video address by Arzu Rana Deuba, Nepal’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, while Krishna Prasad Oli, Nepal’s Ambassador to China, delivered opening remarks. XU Peng, Vice Chair of the World Tourism Alliance (WTA), attended as a guest speaker. Yu Hong, Ambassador and Director-General of the Department of Asian Affairs at China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with ambassadors from nine countries including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, joined over 100 attendees from the tourism and hospitality sectors to celebrate Nepali culture and cuisine.
In his address, Mr. XU Peng underscored the enduring and robust partnership between China and Nepal, noting that the two nations are not only close neighbors but also partners in the shared journey of civilization. In recent years, bilateral friendship and collaboration have deepened significantly, particularly in civil aviation, where seamless connectivity has made the "Himalayan Journey" possible—enabling same-day travel between the two countries and greatly enhancing cross-border efficiency. He further stated that the WTA, as a non-governmental, non-profit international organization, is committed to strengthening cooperation with Nepal and utilizing its global network of members to build a multi-level dialogue and cooperation platform. This will promote the high-quality, sustainable development of bilateral tourism.
As the host, Ambassador Krishna Prasad Oli highlighted that 2025 marks Nepal’s Tourism Promotion Year. He emphasized the country’s diverse tourism offerings—from thrilling adventures in its rich biodiversity to serene retreats for relaxation. He also noted that Nepali cuisine, with its vibrant colors, aromas, and flavors, reflects the nation’s deep cultural heritage. The event, he said, not only helps the world better understand Nepal but also demonstrates the rapid growth of its tourism sector and the vast potential for China-Nepal collaboration in tourism and beyond.
During the event, the Executive Director of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the President of the Hotel Association Nepal (HAN) gave thematic presentations on the country’s tourism resources and distinctive cuisine. The event also featured a Nepalese traditional food tasting area and a handicraft experience zone.