On Saturday, Chinese and Nepali artists performed traditional lion and dragon dances in the Kathmandu Valley, marking the start of celebrations for the Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival.
A lion dance performed on tables and high poles by Chinese artists drew particular applause, as the playful movements of the “lions” delighted the audience. Additionally, a flower drum dance by Chinese performers and a monkey-step dance and dragon dance by Nepali artists were well-received during the event at Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The event also marked the formal launch of “Nepal Visit Year in China,” coinciding with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nepal in 2025.
Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song expressed hope for enhanced cooperation in tourism and other areas. He emphasized using the growth of tourism to drive economic and trade exchanges, connectivity, infrastructure, and cultural collaboration between the two nations. Chen also encouraged efforts to implement the Global Civilization Initiative and the Global Development Initiative, contributing to Nepal’s development vision of “Prosperous Nepal and Happy Nepali.”
Nepal’s Minister for Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, Dipak Khadka, highlighted the importance of the Spring Festival as a reflection of the strong relationship between Nepal and China. He noted that “Nepal Visit Year” is a key event commemorating 70 years of diplomatic ties and acknowledged China’s support in Nepal’s tourism, energy, agriculture, and other sectors.
In celebration of the Spring Festival, Nepal will host events such as lantern exhibitions, art performances, and a football match. The Spring Festival, recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage in December, falls on January 29 this year.
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