KATHMANDU: The enduring friendship between Nepal and China was celebrated on Sunday through a special photographic exhibition and address by Nepali Congress leader Dr. Shekhar Koirala, marking seventy years of formal diplomatic relations. The event, organized by the Girija Prasad Koirala Foundation for Democracy, Peace and Development, highlighted the historic milestones, mutual cooperation, and people-to-people ties that have defined the Nepal-China relationship since 1955.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Koirala reflected on the bilateral relationship founded on the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence—Panchsheel—and emphasized that the partnership has matured into a model of harmony between two countries vastly different in size, systems, and geography. “This is a legacy not only in treaties and trade, but in shared aspirations and daily exchanges between our governments and people,” he said.

The event was graced by the Chief Guest, former Prime Minister and Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba, and Chinese Ambassador Chen Song, among other dignitaries.

Dr. Koirala recalled Nepal’s early support for China’s rightful place in the United Nations, citing former Prime Minister B.P. Koirala’s 1960 speech at the UN General Assembly. “Nepal has always believed in justice on the global stage. Our consistent One China policy across political leadership shows that,” he stated.

He also underlined China’s consistent support in Nepal’s socio-economic development, especially during times of crisis such as the 2015 earthquake and the COVID-19 pandemic. Areas of cooperation have expanded to include trade, tourism, infrastructure development, and cultural exchange.

Reaffirming Nepal’s foreign policy based on non-alignment, peaceful coexistence, and multipolar diplomacy, Dr. Koirala said Nepal would continue to pursue a pragmatic foreign policy rooted in national interest and regional harmony. “Trust-based relationships with both our neighbors—India and China—are key to Nepal’s peace and prosperity,” he added.

The photo exhibition displayed rare and historical moments between the two nations, from high-level visits to grassroots-level exchanges, portraying a dynamic and resilient partnership. “These photographs are a living testament to peaceful coexistence in a rapidly shifting world,” Dr. Koirala remarked.

The program concluded with a tribute to the contributions of late leaders B.P. Koirala and Girija Prasad Koirala in strengthening Nepal-China ties.