Zhou Pan, minister counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Nepal, speaks at the closing ceremony of the seventh Chinese Language Training Course for Nepalese Tourism Professionals in Kathmandu, Nepal, Dec. 19, 2025. A total of 47 Nepali tourism professionals received certificates at the conclusion of a Chinese language training session here on Friday. (Xinhua/Zhang Ping)

KATHMANDU, Dec. 19 (Xinhua) -- A total of 47 Nepali tourism professionals received certificates at the conclusion of a Chinese language training session here on Friday.

The training was conducted under a six-month program organized by the Chinese Embassy in Nepal, in cooperation with the Nepal Tourism Board and the Nepal China Cultural and Educational Council. The seven training sessions held under the program have equipped nearly 300 Nepali tourism professionals with Chinese language skills.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nepal, coincides with the "2025 Nepal Tourism Year," and is a crucial year in Nepal's 10-year tourism plan (2023-2032), said Zhou Pan, minister counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Nepal.

"As a bridge for spreading civilization, exchanging culture and enhancing friendship, the tourism industry and its practitioners are 'natural diplomats,'" Zhou told attendees at the ceremony.

Ram Krishna Lamichhane, director general of Nepal's Department of Tourism, said the program is crucial for Nepal as the country anticipates and welcomes an increasing number of Chinese tourists. ■

Ram Krishna Lamichhane (1st L), director general of Nepal's Department of Tourism, speaks at the closing ceremony of the seventh Chinese Language Training Course for Nepalese Tourism Professionals in Kathmandu, Nepal, Dec. 19, 2025. A total of 47 Nepali tourism professionals received certificates at the conclusion of a Chinese language training session here on Friday. (Xinhua/Zhang Ping)