Kunming, China – 9th China-South Asia Exposition and the 29th Kunming Import and Export Fair, jointly organized by the Ministry of Commerce of China and the Foreign Affairs Office of the Yunnan Provincial Government.

Dr. Krishna Prasad Oli, Ambassador of Nepal to the People's Republic of China, participated in the inauguration of the 9th China-South Asia Exposition and the 29th Kunming Import and Export Fair.

As part of the event, Ambassador Dr. Oli also addressed the opening ceremony of the 6th China-South Asia Cooperation Forum, held under the theme "Join Hands for Open and Inclusive Development." In his remarks, Dr. Oli emphasized the growing significance of the Forum as a platform for deepening regional exchanges and fostering mutual benefits between China and South Asia.

He noted the immense potential of South Asia, highlighting the region’s shared natural resources, cultural diversity, dynamic markets, and large workforce. These common strengths, he stressed, make collaboration not only desirable but essential for inclusive regional development.

Dr. Oli expressed satisfaction over the longstanding and multifaceted relationship between Nepal and China, noting that 2025 marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations. He called for further strengthening cooperation in key sectors such as trade, investment, tourism, energy, agriculture, ICT, industry, connectivity, health, and education.

Underscoring Nepal's vision of transforming from a landlocked to a land-linked country, Ambassador Oli appealed for continued support from China in realizing this goal. He also invited Chinese tourists—particularly from Kunming, the sister city of Pokhara—to visit Nepal as part of the Nepal Visit Year 2025 and experience its rich natural and cultural offerings.

The Forum was attended by high-ranking dignitaries from across South and Southeast Asia, including representatives from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Laos, Myanmar, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, the UAE, and Vietnam, along with members of the business community, think tanks, and media.

Additionally, around 120 Nepali exhibitors are participating in the ongoing exposition and fair, which continues through June 24, 2025, showcasing Nepal’s products and opportunities for economic cooperation.