Chinese ambassador Song pays farewell call on Speaker Ghimire

KATHMANDU: The Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Nepal, Chen Song, paid a farewell call on the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Devraj Ghimire, on Sunday.

The meeting, held at the Speaker’s office in Singha Durbar, discussed issues including strengthening bilateral relations and expanding economic and development cooperation.

Speaker Ghimire congratulated Ambassador Chen on the successful completion of his tenure in Nepal, praising his significant contributions toward reinforcing Nepal–China relations and fostering cooperation in economic and developmental fields.

He described the Ambassador’s stay in Nepal as both pleasant and memorable.

Referring to the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China, Speaker Ghimire highlighted the various programs organized by both sides in 2025 that further elevated bilateral cooperation.

He reaffirmed that Nepal and China have remained good neighbors, close friends, and reliable partners, with relations guided by the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, mutual respect, and cooperative understanding.

The Speaker reiterated Nepal’s firm commitment to the One-China principle and assured that no activities contrary to China’s interests would be allowed on Nepalese soil.

He also appreciated China’s support in Nepal’s transformation from a landlocked to a land-linked country and noted that regular delegations and parliamentary dialogues between the two nations have broadened and strengthened bilateral ties.

Emphasizing Nepal’s gratitude for China’s generous development assistance, Speaker Ghimire called for the timely implementation of projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and other development programs.

Ambassador Chen expressed that Nepal holds a high priority in China’s diplomatic agenda.

He highlighted the successful implementation of agreements from Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Nepal in 2020 and noted that, despite strong people-to-people relations, economic cooperation between the two countries has yet to reach its full potential.

He referenced a recent Nepal–China workshop on economic cooperation and investment, observing that many Chinese businesses are keen to invest in Nepal.

Reflecting on his tenure, Ambassador Chen said he would always remember the warm and positive support received from Speaker Ghimire and Nepal’s top leaders, describing it as an unforgettable aspect of his service in Nepal.

Similarly, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Song, also paid a farewell visit to Narayan Prasad Dahal, Chairperson of the National Assembly, ahead of the completion of his tenure. The meeting took place at Dahal’s office in Singha Durbar.

During the meeting, Chair Dahal praised Ambassador Song for his significant role in strengthening bilateral ties between Nepal and China during his tenure. “You have played a remarkable role in making the relationship between our two countries even stronger,” Dahal said. “We will always remember you as a good friend, wherever you are.”

Highlighting the 70th anniversary of Nepal–China diplomatic relations in 2025, Dahal mentioned his participation in various commemorative programs.

In response, Ambassador Song expressed gratitude for the support and cooperation he received during his tenure. He described Nepal as a true and close friend of China, emphasizing that both countries have always respected each other’s sensitivities and concerns.

Ambassador Song also expressed China’s readiness to provide necessary support during the upcoming House of Representatives election in March.