Chinese Language Training Begins for Nepalese Tourism Professionals
Kathmandu – Chinese language training has begun for tourism professionals in Nepal. The training program was jointly organized by the Nepal Tourism Board and the Chinese Embassy in Nepal. Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Mr. Bhanu Prasad Pandey, formally inaugurated the seventh batch of the training on Friday at the Board’s auditorium.
Aimed at Nepali tourism professionals and entrepreneurs, the training program was launched with the hope of boosting tourism promotion efforts. In his remarks, Minister Pandey expressed his belief that the program would contribute significantly to this goal. “Knowledge of the Chinese language will serve as a bridge in Nepal–China relations and aid in promoting tourism,” he said.
The minister further remarked that linguistic knowledge is akin to gaining an asset, stating, “The more languages one learns, the more one enhances their competence. Language proficiency plays a crucial role in fostering closeness and effective communication with others.”
He also emphasized that language carries civilization, history, and philosophy. Highlighting the importance of having skilled translators, he added, “Those trained in the Chinese language can serve as cultural ambassadors. This will not only support tourism development but also foster self-employment opportunities.”
Minister Pandey also encouraged Chinese participants to visit Nepal to experience its natural beauty. “Since China has declared a ‘Nepal Tourism Year,’ I urge my Chinese friends to come and explore Nepal’s nature. No matter how many times you visit Nepal, it never feels like enough—you always want to see more,” he said.
Noting the reduced snowfall in the Himalayas due to climate change, the minister mentioned that efforts are ongoing to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change.
Also addressing the program, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Mr. Chen Song, stated that the seventh edition of the language training program coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China. “Since coming to Nepal, this is my third time attending the inauguration of a language training program. Chinese visitors to Nepal expect to communicate in their native language, and such training programs will help improve the quality of Nepal’s tourism services,” he said.
Ambassador Song emphasized China’s role as a global force in restructuring the world tourism model. “Chinese tourists visiting Nepal not only wants to buy souvenirs or visit destinations but also seek to experience local culture and communicate in their own language. Knowledge of Chinese will help explain Nepal’s history and enhance service quality in the long run.”
He added that learning Chinese presents a golden opportunity to benefit from the world’s largest tourism market.
Meanwhile, acting CEO of the Nepal Tourism Board, Mr. Hikmat Singh Ayer, called the training program a significant initiative made possible through the joint efforts of the Chinese Embassy and the Board. He added, “Launching Chinese language training is not just the beginning of a language course—it also strengthens the bridge of Nepal–China relations.”
Acting CEO Ayer emphasized that Chinese language training would play a major role in skill development and capacity building for Nepal’s tourism professionals. “Language is a powerful medium—it removes barriers, builds trust, and fosters deep connections. Investing in Chinese language training is an investment in grassroots relationships, service quality, and long-term cooperation. With language skills, Nepali tourism professionals can become strong competitors in the global tourism market.”
To date, 240 individuals have been trained through six previous batches of the program. The initiative began in 2016 following an agreement during Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s visit to China to strengthen Nepal–China relations through language training for tourism professionals.
The event was also attended by Dr. Harischandra Shah, President of the Nepal-China Cultural and Educational Council.
