KATHMANDU: Zhang Maoming, the newly appointed Chinese ambassador to Nepal, arrived in Kathmandu on Friday to assume his diplomatic post.

Officials from Nepal’s Foreign Ministry and the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu received him upon arrival.

Prior to his appointment, Zhang served as a deputy director at the Department of Asian Affairs of China’s foreign ministry. He replaces Chen Song, who has returned to China after completing a three-year tenure and receiving a promotion.

Following his arrival, Zhang posted on X, saying it was his “great honour” to be appointed as the 23rd Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to Nepal. He said he had been warmly welcomed by Nepali people and was impressed by the country’s beauty and vitality.

Zhang added that he looks forward to working with Nepali counterparts to advance bilateral exchanges and practical cooperation, and to promote the China–Nepal Strategic Partnership of Cooperation.

A familiar figure in Nepal’s political and diplomatic circles, Zhang has previously participated in several meetings with Nepali officials and leaders. He is expected to formally begin his engagements in Kathmandu after presenting his credentials to the President.