Pokhara: Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pande, has emphasized the potential of sport tourism as a means to enhance Nepal-China relations and accelerate development efforts. Inaugurating the ‘cross country relay’ event co-organized by Pokhara Metropolitan City (PMC), the Chinese Embassy, and the Himalayan Tourism Forum in Pokhara, Minister Pande expressed confidence that Chinese tourists would appreciate the natural beauty and cultural richness of Nepal.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Minister Pande highlighted the government’s plan to designate 2025 as the Nepal-China tourism year, anticipating increased travel between the two nations. He expressed hope that the sports events would facilitate greater interaction between Nepali and Chinese people. Additionally, Minister Pande mentioned ongoing government efforts to establish regular international flights at Pokhara International Airport and to manage the Korala border point systematically.
The minister also reminded
attendees of Nepal’s significance as a destination for religious tourism, citing notable sites such as Muktinath, Pashupatinath, Lumbini, and Janaki Temple. Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song, noted that sports events featuring athletes from both countries have been organized in various Nepali cities over the past two years to bolster bilateral relations. Ambassador Song announced plans for a grand event in the next edition to mark the 70th anniversary of Nepal-China diplomatic ties.
PMC Mayor Dhanraj Acharya expressed optimism about the sport competition’s potential to enhance Nepal-China tourism activities. Planned events include sprints, mountain races, cycle races, trail running, and rowing as part of the competition.