Diplomatic relations between Nepal and China were established on August 1, 1955. Since then, the bilateral relations between China and Nepal, the northern neighborhood where the Chinese Communist Party (CPC) is operating as a single power, are becoming stronger and stronger. In recent times, the two countries are also emphasizing multilateral relations.

Following the 'One China Policy', Nepal agreed to adopt the 'One China Principle' during Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal's visit to China in 2023 in accordance with China's wishes. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, China opened its embassy in Kathmandu, while Nepal opened its embassy in Beijing in 1956. Apart from the embassy in Beijing, Nepal has consulates in Lhasa, Hong Kong, Chengdu and Guangzhou. Chhan Song, the Chinese ambassador to Nepal, is currently in Kathmandu in charge of making the relationship between the two countries more harmonious. He is active in social media and is the 22nd ambassador of China to Nepal. He came to Nepal in January 2023 to take charge. Edited part of the conversation with Ambassador Chhan on various topics including geography, climate, culture, and heritage of Kantipur Jagdishwar Pandey :  What was your experience when you came to Nepal for the first time?

  Nepal is located in the southern foothills of the Himalayas. It is connected to China's Xizang Autonomous Region (Tibet) in the north. The geographical diversity of Nepal is high, where different landforms can be seen from the northern Himalayan region to the southern Terai region. Nepal has eight of the world's 14 highest peaks above 8000 meters, including Mount Everest. Hence the area has become a popular destination for mountaineers. The Terai region has fertile land and an amazing diversity of wildlife. The Terai region is known as the 'Grain Bhandar of Nepal'. Kathmandu Valley is located in the Madhyapahari region. which possesses a large population, a temperate climate and a diverse culture. And, this area is an ideal place to live.

  In the course of

work, you have met many Nepalis. What is your perception of Nepali?

As the Chinese ambassador to Nepal, one of my missions (goals) is to build friendship with the Nepali people and contribute to their livelihood. In the last two years, I have visited many government and public institutions. I have participated in various social activities. And, I have discussed with Nepalese friends from all areas. The kind nature of Nepali people impressed me a lot. There is an old saying in China that harmony between people is the main basis of harmonious relations between states. The mutual relationship between Chinese and Nepali people builds the foundation of China-Nepal friendship. 

What is your opinion about Nepal's weather? 

Nepal is a country with diverse climates. Climate conditions range from hot to cold climates at altitudes ranging from a few meters above sea level to more than 8000 meters. Classified as a temperate climate zone, Kathmandu Valley has similar climatic characteristics to Kunming, the 'Chinese Spring City' of Yunnan Province. It has a pleasant climate with warm summers and mild winters. Monsoon season enters Nepal from June to September. which makes the air moist and clean. However, it can also cause loss of life due to floods and landslides. Rainfall is less in October. And, the climate is cold and dry. That is the most relaxing and enjoyable period for me. 

What do you think about Nepali food? Which food did you like? 

Nepal has a traditional food culture based on its original characteristics. Nepalis have created some new foods and dishes with many exchanges in recent years. Personally, I like Mustang's potatoes a lot. This potato seed was originally brought from Xijang Autonomous Region. It was produced extensively in the northern region and then became popular in Nepal. The first time I ate Mustang Aloo, which has a special Nepali taste, I was very attracted. Mustang potato is a symbol of friendship between China and Nepal as well as a model of practical cooperation between the two countries. China will continue to support Nepal in more agricultural programs to improve the living standards of the Nepali people in the future. 

What is your opinion about the festivals and behavior of Nepal? 

Nepal is a rich cultural heritage and religious 

is a country that celebrates festivals. There are a variety of rituals including namaste, tika and beautiful traditional costumes. Nepali people are known for their generous and friendly nature. What I like the most is the respect for senior citizens and strong family ties in Nepali society. These values ​​are also common in Chinese society.

Do you celebrate any festivals in Nepal? Which festival do you like?

One of the unique characteristics that attract Chinese tourists is that Nepal is the 'land of festivals'. Many Nepali festivals are closely related to Nepal's history, religion and caste. Celebrating festivals together is a process of understanding Nepali culture and people. Not long ago, I celebrated the Rato Machhindranath Rath festival with the local people in Lalitpur. The Chinese Embassy in Nepal also celebrates traditional Chinese festivals such as the Spring Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival. Apart from Rath Parva, I love Holi and Diwali. These festivals are also an important opportunity for tourists from all over the world to come to Nepal. For this, thousands of Chinese tourists came to Nepal this year alone. During Diwali, every Nepalese light up beautiful colorful lamps/lamps in their homes. And, the entire country is decorated in a warm and dreamy way. So is China's traditional Lantern Festival, which is another vivid example of cultural interaction between our two countries. On the occasion of Holi, people from Nepali, Chinese and other countries paint each other's faces, express blessings and dance to music. Today Nepal is full of colorful and peaceful environment. It is equally valuable in building community for the common future of mankind. 

Do you like to speak Nepali language? Do you know the language of Nepal? 

I can only speak a few words in Nepali like 'Namaste, thank you'. There are many languages ​​in Nepal. And, mainly each ethnic group has its own language. I learned that 123 languages ​​are spoken in Nepal. 

Which places in Nepal have you visited? Which is your favorite place among them? 

I want to understand the customs of Nepal and communicate directly with the local people. I have visited Koshi, Wagmati, Madhesh, Gandaki, Lumbini region. Two of my favorite destinations are Pokhara and Tatopani. Pokhara is a very beautiful city located on the shores of Lake Fewatal. The three famous peaks Dhaulagiri, Annapurna-1 and Manaslu located in the Annapurna snow range attract thousands of Chinese tourists every year. Tatopani is historically a major trading port between China and Nepal, where we can find similar cultures and ethnic customs in the Himalayan ranges. One of the two places is a growing tourism hub and a witness to people-to-people ties. The other is a witness to thousands of years of friendly exchange between the two countries.