Here Understand China and the World Better

HERE UNDERSTAND CHINA AND THE WORLD BETTER

ISSUE 27 | AUGUST 2015 | 12 PAGES | RS. 5.00 In association with

Foreign Minister Mahendra Bahadur Pandey (4th L) and Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Wu Chuntai (C) participate in a walkathon organized to mark the 60th anniversary of the establishment of Nepal-China diplomatic relationship in Kathmandu, Nepal, Aug. 1, 2015. (Photo/Sunil Sharma)

A photo book recently published by APD Greetings !

On behalf of Nepal-China Mutual Cooperation Society, I would like to extend my warmest greetings and best wishes to the Chinese Communist Party and the people of China on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations Prem Sagar Poudel between Nepal and China. President I would also like to express my best wishes for a continued Nepal-China Mutual Cooperation Society progress and prosperity of the people of China and everlasting friendship between Nepal and China.

I sincerely hope that this remarkable occasion will help take the exceptionally cordial and friendly bilateral relations between Nepal and the People’s Republic of China to new heights through cooperation in the political, economical, cultural, social and academic areas. 2 OPINION AUGUST 2015 Nepal-China Relations Sustainable Development In Retrospect in China Dynasty (265-420), Huen Tsang, with Nepal in 1856 AD in the BY BISHNU HARI NEPAL Tripitaka Master, (602-664) from name of “Thapathali Sandhi” Tang Dynasty and Songsten to settle the skirmishes and China’s economic growth is having far reaching impacts on its own environment Gompo, King of Tubo Kingdom, conflicts between Kathmandu environmental deterioration and natural Geographically speaking, also from the Tang Dynasty, and Lhasa. The Treaty lasted made historic visits to Nepal and for 100 years. It was replaced BY SHARAD SHRESTHA resources management. The environmental and especially because of the degradation and natural resource Himalayan Mountain System, made significant contributions to on 24 September 1956 after the promote bilateral ties. establishment of the modern The world commission on Environment depletion have endangered the public Nepal and China are perceived health of the Chinese people, undermined as two sides of the same coin. From the Nepalese side diplomatic ties between Nepal and Development explains sustainable the most famous scholars were and China on August 1, 1955 in development as “meeting the needs of the productivity and reduced the welfare During the pre-historic period, of future generations. The government the people of Nepal and China Buddhabhadra Shakya and Kathmandu. present without compromising the ability of Shilamanj. Buddhabhadra, Nepal and China then signed future generations.” should seriously consider policies that developed, and shared, the balance achievable economic growth with “Himalayan Civilization” known as Chiao-hsie in China, the Panchsheel treaty: the Five The 1992 Rio Conference fully endorses is regarded as the descendant Principles of “mutual respect for a new path of sustainable development for environmental sustainability. together. Sustainable development represents Many cite Nepal’s of Amrtodana, uncle of the each other’s territorial integrity the future well –being of the planet. China historical Buddha. Similarly, and sovereignty, non-aggression, was one of the first two countries to come a new school of thinking. To make the nationhood to be around 247 concept of sustainable development years old (after non-interference in up with an Agenda 21 plan immediately each other’s internal following the Rio summit. With its rapid more pragmatic and attainable, many Prithivi Narayan scholars present a variety of definitions Shah engaged in the affairs for any economic growth, China is playing a key economic, political or role in world economic affairs. China’s from different perspectives as economic, task of expanding environmental and social concepts the Gurkha Kingdom ideological reasons, economic growth is having far reaching equality and mutual impacts on its own environment as well of sustainability. Each approach is which ultimately led biased toward only one dimension and to the unification of benefit and peaceful as the prosperity and the environmental coexistence”, as the conditions of the global community. fails to fully convey the idea of an all Nepal), but as per encompassing sustainable development. “Vedic Civilization”, guiding principles of Unambiguously, their relations. Nepal the successful The risirising population and Nepal has a long cocontinuousnt urbanization history of 4.2m years. remained neutral implementation of in the Sino-Indian the sustainable aarer causing In fact, this date environmental denotes to a much War of 1962, but development supported “One concept depends deterioration earlier period than the and straining discovery of human China Policy” from on the success the very beginning of the well the supplies of species by modern energy, water and science today. and, as proof of – balanced its commitment development other resources Nepal’s During the 1960’s, Nepal played a key in China’s urban Gaurishankar mountain towards it, suppressed that also considers “Khampa Mutiny” economic welfare aareas. In addition and China’s Kailash/ role in the “Himalayan Balance of Power ttoo rregulatory Mansarovar are for “Free Tibet” in the and environmental System” between China and India. late ‘70s. conditions. mmechanisms,echa China should standing as living cconsideronsider applying market– history until today According to In the past, Chineseese Palmer and Perkins, economic achievementent oorientedriented policy instruments, as testimony of the ssuchuch as pricesp and taxes, aforementioned Himalayan Princess Bhrikuti, the daughter during the 1960’s, Nepal played has been simply measuredasured of King Anshuverma from a key role in the “Himalayan by its gross domesticc to affaffectect ttheh residential civilization. cconsumptiononsumptio and industrial use After Buddhism started to Lichchhavi period was married Balance of Power System” product (GDP) growthwth and the to King Songsten Gompo of between China and India. Nepal accumulation of man-maden made capital ooff nnaturalatural rresources.eso Institutional enjoy a firm foothold in Nepal, structure performs a crucial role historical records show that Tubo Kingdom, present-day strongly supported China’s and has not taken into consideration Tibetan Autonomous Region of candidacy at the UN, replacing environmental costs. With the rapid in implementing these regulatory and Buddhism then started to spread economic mechanisms. The reform of to China via Central Asia in the China. She became very famous Taiwan. Ultimately, China industrialization and other social economic by the name of “Harittara” whilst became one of five permanent changes taking place, it is time to consider current institutions would be essential 1st Century. More than 2000 to insure the successful execution of a years ago, Manjushree from promoting Buddhism, art, culture members of the United Nations whether China’s ecosystem can assimilate and architecture of Nepal to Security Council. Among the 116 the rise in pollution, and whether China’s sustainable development strategy. Wutai Mountains of Central How to cope with the potential China came to Nepal and cut a China. countries, China, unlike India, renewable and non – renewable natural After the death of Arniko, a was one of the strong supporters resources can meet the demand of economic environmental consequences is a serious gorge at a place now known as challenge for China’s future sustainability. Chobhar with a sword to drain Nepali artisan who is regarded of Nepal’s “Zone of Peace” development in the long run. Since 1978, as one of the key figures in proposal, propounded by King China’s gradual transition from a planning Let us hope that China will continue to away the waters and establish a enjoy high economic growth through the habitable land. the arts of Nepal, Tibet and Birendra on 25 February 1975. economy to a market–oriented economy has Yuan dynasty, on November On the basis of Panchsheel, created the “China Miracle”. middle of the 21st century, with a per capita In fact, it is supported by the income level of US$ 9,300 by 2050. In the chronology of the friendly visits 12, 1305 in China, there were China has adopted a very Concern over global warming many diplomatic ups and downs favorable policy towards because of China’s rapid economic present scenario, China has emerged as the of Chinese travelers to Lumbini, second largest economy after the United Nepal, and their writings before between Kathmandu and Lhasa, Nepal to help the latter in its development has dominated the studies which were almost always settled development endeavors. Lets on China’s Sustainable development in States of America. Therefore, sustainable and after the mid-7th-century. development has become a great challenge For instance, emissaries like by Beijing. Infact, Beijing played hope the age-old ties between the international community. However, a key role in forging a historic Nepal and China will continue to a more serious environmental challenge and opportunity for this great nation in years Fa-hsien from Shanshi province to come. of China and Seng-tsai from Tsin “Peace and Friendship Treaty” flourish in the coming days. in China could be the domestic impact of Why China Isn’t Doing Enough in Nepal? The hydropower potential of Nepal will never bear fruit unless there is trilateral economic cooperation between China, India and Nepal

amount loaned by the World but relatively insignificant chosen to sign an accord to engage BY MADHUKAR SJB RANA Bank! amounts being loaned and in bilateral trade cooperation using Some analysts argue invested in its immediate the Lipu Lekh pass with India at By all accounts, China is rapidly that the current stock market neighbor Nepal with, the expense of Nepal -- and with emerging as an economic Super slump of the equivalent of presumably, the second total disregard for Nepal’s territorial Power with the $ 4 trillion in reserves $ 3.1 trillion will dent its largest hydro power energy integrity. and establishment of AIIB and ambitions to reach out to all potential in the world that One, naturally, suspects if China, BRICS Bank in China. Sooner than corners of the globe. This could light up the whole of despite its new found economic and later the renminbi is expected to is unlikely given the huge North India! military clout, still wishes to have become a global reserve currency, like balance of payment surplus We realize that unless Nepal under the Indian security Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Wu Chuntai (2nd L) and secretary of the dollar, euro, pound and yen. The China enjoys, which is best Ministry of Finance Suman Prasad Sharma (4th L) shake hands during there is trilateral economic umbrella as a quid pro quo for India’s important thing to be underscored used lending and investing a signing ceremony for a grant assistance provided by China at Singha cooperation between agreement to continue with the is that, even without the above rather than subsidizing the Durbar in Kathmandu, Nepal, March 17, 2015. China, India and Nepal, this Nehruvian Tibet policy in the wake mentioned financial institutions in American economy. potential will never bear of the strong presence of the western full operations, China’s loans to other What is significant, like infrastructure, power, mining, fruit. Sadly, instead of using powers in Nepal. countries has already surpassed the and perplexing, are the Chinese hospitals and even agriculture in far its diplomatic clout to get India to Professor Rana is a former loans and investments in sectors off Africa as well as Latin America; expedite trilateral cooperation, it has Finance Minister of Nepal

PUBLISHED BY Xinhua News Agency, Kathmandu Bureau CONTACT US Xinhua News Agency, 15/21 Hattisar, Naxal, Kathmandu, Nepal, Tel: 01- 4434475, Fax: 01- 4435216 Contribution/Feedback [email protected] Consultant Ram Babu Adhikari, 9841264025 Marketing [email protected]; Manisha Shrestha, 981885267698510 40562 FOLLOW US APD Websites www.apdnews.com, http://nep.apdnews.com xinhuanepal, XinhuaNewsAgency @xinhuanepal Printed at Active Printing Press Pvt. Ltd., Ph : 01-4022672 AUGUST 2015 INTERVIEW 3 TThehe tthirdhird fforceorce mmarsars China is a good, trustworthy friend of Nepal SSino-Nepalino-Nepal tiesties First of all, give us establishment of a brief introduction diplomatic relations of Nepal-China between the two diplomatic relations with various Nepal after Xi came to the power. Mutual Cooperation countries on August programs. At the same time it is a There is a continuity of the good Society and its main 1, 1955. China has right time to review the progress made neighborhood policy on the basis of objectives? always respected in the past sixty years between the “Panchsheel”, the five principle of Nepal and the Nepal’s sovereignty two countries and to chalk out ways peaceful co-existence. President Xi’s People’s Republic and territorial integrity to expand the relations. Nepalese “Chinese Dream” is very important of China enjoy age- and never interfered president Dr Ram Baran Yadav has for Nepal as well. He has wished to old friendly ties and in the internal affairs visited China and attended BOAO fulfill the aspiration of the people of strong cooperation in of Nepal. As a true forum for Asia in March this year. neighboring countries. President Xi various sectors based Prem Sagar Poudel friend, China has Hiranya Lal Shrestha The Nepal government is expecting wants to enhance mutually beneficial Foreign Affairs Expert and on the five principles President been extending all Author of Sixty Years of Dynamic President Xi Jinping’s visit to Nepal cooperation between China and Nepal. of equality and co- Nepal-China Mutual the necessary help Partnership this year. However, the Nepalese side The One Belt One Road is equally existence. However, Cooperation Society and support to Nepal should create a conducive environment important for developing countries they have not been in its development to arrange high-level visits from China. like Nepal. The establishment of the able to strengthen their efforts. China is a huge How do you assess Nepal-China BRICS bank and Asian Infrastructure relations in a mutually country compared to relations during the past sixty years? What are better ways to strengthen Investment Bank (AAIB) will end the beneficial manner Nepal and an emerging Nepal-China relation in the past 60 Nepal-China relations in the days to control of West-dominated financial to promote further world power, but it has years witnessed significant progress in come? institutions such as the World Bank development in the field never imposed itself various areas based on Panchsheel, the First of all, there should not be and Asian Development Bank. of culture and economic on Nepal or tried to five principles of peaceful coexistence. any third country influence in Nepal cooperation between act in a big-brotherly China is expanding her relations with aiming to destabilize China and the What benefits Nepal should expect the two countries. So, manner. On the the Nepal government, political parties entire region. A few ‘Tibetan refugee after becoming a part of the Silk Nepal-China Mutual Cooperation contrary, it has been maintaining and the people after Nepal became camps’ are launching anti-china Route? Society was established on June good neighborly friendship to meet Federal Democratic Republic in 2008. activities in Nepal. Such camps This will provide new 15th, 1987 as per the Nepalese laws the common aspirations of the two Nepal has always been sensitive are the sources of so-called ‘Tibet opportunities to Nepal especially with the clear objective to review peoples through mutually beneficial toward China’s security concerns and Independence movement’ in Nepal, through enhancing better connectivity the time-honored friendly relations cooperation. making all possible efforts to curb which are against the interests of with other countries. Nepal can and exchanges and help meet the anti-Chinese activities invite more foreign common aspirations of the people of What should be done to further in her territory. For investment and the two countries. strengthen Nepal-China relations? instance, Nepal In order to overcome the huge trade deficit with enhance her bilateral China wants to further intensify Army disarmed the trade with other Tell us about the kind of activities economic and trade cooperation with Khampa rebels, who China, Nepal should export goods and products countries. The flow your organization is involved in? Nepal and has shown great interest were involved in of tourists will be Nepal-China Mutual Cooperation to invest and increase cooperation the so-called ‘Tibet which have high demands in China increased in Nepal Society has been organizing various in the areas of hydropower, tourism, Independence’ as the tourism programs with an aim to help business, transportation, agriculture, movement by using has remained as a raise extensive understanding on poverty alleviations, among others. Nepali territory in 1974. In the Nepal and China. These camps have backbone of the national economy. the development of Nepal-China It wants to further explore new operation launched by the Nepal remained as tools for external forces historic relations and make it grow areas of bilateral economic and Army a leader of the ‘separatist to conduct anti-China activities in the What’s your comment on China’s in a consistent, steady and healthy technical cooperation to make movement’ by the name Colonel name of human rights. Second, Nepal economic progress? How would it manner in the people-to-people positive contribution to the economic Wangdi was killed. is facing huge trade deficit with China. benefit Nepal? level. Every year we organize at development in Nepal. Therefore, the Nepal has been adhering to the In order to overcome this problem, China is second largest economy least 10-11 cultural programmes, government of Nepal should create one-China policy. Nepali people have Nepal should attract more Chinese in the world and stake claims in seminars and conferences to give the an enabling atmosphere to encourage admired China’s generous support investment and export goods and the global politics and economy. message of harmonious coexistence well-established Chinese companies toward Nepal’s independence and products which have high demands in China’s rapid progress has made and everlasting friendship between to invest in diverse sectors and sovereignty several times in the past, China. Third, Nepal and China should great contribution to World peace Nepal and China. Till now we have ensure proper implementation of while China’s incessant support to enhance connectivity through various and development. China has been organized more than 198 such various projects under Chinese Nepal’s socio-economic development ways to promote bilateral and regional increasing unconditional financial programmes successfully coinciding assistance for the socio-economic has helped in expanding people-to- trade, investment and tourism. support to Nepal for years. While with important national occasions in development in Nepal. people contacts. China’s concessional loans in Nepal’s China. The Nepalese side should also With the advent of new Chinese infrastructure development is equally adopt several measures to not allow What do you think is the best way leadership in 2013, do you see important. China is Nepal’s most How would you evaluate Nepal- any forces to use its territory to for Nepal and China to celebrate the significant change in China’s policy reliable development partner. Thus, China Relations? engage in anti-China activities and 60 years of diplomatic relations? towards Nepal? Nepal is gaining a lot from china’s Nepal and China further help the northern neighbor uphold Both Nepal and China are I feel both continuity and economic progress. consolidated their age-old ties its sovereignty, national unity and celebrating 60th anniversary of the change in China’s policy toward and mutual cooperation with the territorial integrity.

definitely work in favour of Nepal. Although the number of Chinese PPoliticalolitical iinstabilitynstability bbiggestiggest travelers coming to Nepal has decreased considerably after the quake, air connectivity should be increased as the situation cconcernoncern fforor CChinesehinese iinvestorsnvestors becomes normal to bring in more Chinese tourists to Nepal. There are regular flights from cities like How do you evaluate investment so vital for Nepal’s Guangzhou, Chengdu and Kunming the current state of We have to seriously think about how economy? to Kathmandu. Now we should push trade and investment Just a decade ago, very few for direct flights to major cities like between Nepal and to attract more Chinese investment and Nepali businessmen would be Beijing and Shanghai. China? take necessary measures to create an interested in taking part in trade Although bilateral fairs and exhibitions in China. Although China has provided trade between Nepal enabling atmosphere for the same. We used to struggle even to find duty free access to more than and China, including 3-4 businessmen interested to 8000 products from Nepal, there Chinese investment in go there. The situation now has has not been any significant Nepal has experienced completely changed as most improvement in Nepal’s export to significant growth, Based on my conversation with of the traders in Nepal want to Rajesh Kaji Shrestha China. Why? they still don’t match its potential the Chinese investors, I can say that participate in trade fairs in China and Nepal does not produce all the level. Despite being a neighboring political instability is their biggest promote their products. If you ask President, Nepal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry products on which China has given country, Nepal has lagged behind in concern and the main thing they handicraft producers and exporters duty free access. Additionally, attracting Chinese investment into consider before putting their money in Patan and Bhaktapur, they would the duty free access has not been the country at a time when China has in Nepal. If the new constitution is say they have been able to survive given exclusively to Nepal. Other invested massively in many countries promulgated and we can achieve only because of the Chinese buyers. countries also enjoy this facility. around the world. There are instances some kind of political stability, China has also emerged as one of Nepal’s export potential to China where a single Chinese company is Chinese investment will definitely most important source market for remains in food items only, but investing more than the entire budget grow manifolds in Nepal. Plus, I Nepali tourism. Just few years ago, these edible products, too, are not of Nepal in far-flung countries in don’t find any kind of problem with a small number of Chinese tourists getting easy entry into the Chinese Africa and South America. We have Nepal’s policies and laws- they used to visit this country. Now we are market due to the country’s stringent to seriously think about how we can are very investment-friendly. The receiving more than 100,000 Chinese quarantine system. So, we are attract more Chinese investment and presence of the Chinese bank in tourists a year, which will grow even asking the governments of both the take necessary measures to create an Nepal would have eased the process more in the days to come despite increase the inflow of Chinese countries to sign an agreement on enabling atmosphere for the same. of Chinese investment as well as temporary halt in arrivals due to the tourists? quarantine so that certification given bilateral trade. devastating earthquake of April 25. Increased air flights and by one country’s authority would be So what could be done to attract enhanced road and railway recognized by another country. more Chinese investments? Why is China and Chinese What should be done to further connectivity with China will 4 AUGUST 2015 ECON

Nepal-China Trade FY 2012-13 FY 2013-14 FY 2014-15 (11mths) Exports Rs 2.08b Rs 2.84b Rs 2.15b Imports Rs 62.45b Rs 73.31b Rs 92.17b

Photo/Sukdev Chamling Total Trade Rs 64.53b Rs 76.15b Rs 94.32b Source: Nepal Rastra Bank

items to be sold in the markets import items from China include across Nepal during the festive telecommunications equipment, season. machinery parts, electrical goods, “Many traders have already televisions and readymade started importing goods through the garments. Even though Nepal’s sea route now, but this is both time entire northern border is connected consuming and could be expensive with China, almost 75 percent of for traders,” said Bachhu Poudel, Chinese goods are imported from Senior Vice President of Nepal China through the sea route with Trans Himalaya Border Commerce Indian territory being the transit. Association. “There is a chance for Traders said that imports enhanced trade growth between from China could come down the two countries provided significantly in the current fiscal inland connectivity with China year as traders have started to is enhanced with necessary QQuakeuake ddampensampens aggressively seek alternative of infrastructure,” said Purusottam China to import goods meant for Ojha, a former commerce secretary. the festive season following the Currently, Tatopani route is being long obstruction of key highways predominantly used for bilateral connecting Nepal to China. trade, although Rasuwagadhi route “Many traders have started has also been formally opened for importing goods from India, bilateral trade from last year. NNepal-Chinaepal-China TradeTrade Bangladesh, Thailand and even “More connectivity with China Indonesia while trying to find an through more border checkpoints alternative for cheap Chinese goods. and expanding the Chinese railway Traders said that imports from China could come We have received reports of large service to the Nepal-China border BY APD REPORTER consignment of goods coming from could help boost the trade between down significantly in the current fiscal year Bangkok,” said Poudel. the two countries as it will significantly reduce both the as traders have started to aggressively seek Cross border trade between Prospect of increased time it usually takes to import Nepal and China has been alternative of China to import goods meant for the Chinese goods to Nepal as well completely halted since the bilateral trade as the cost,” said Ojha. China has devastating earthquake of April festive season following the long obstruction of committed to expand its railway to 25. Officials have confirmed that Although the obstruction of Rasuwagadhi border in Nepal from no trade has taken place through key highways connecting Nepal to China. two highways connecting Nepal to Sigatse. Barhabise-Tatopani section of the China has significantly hampered Although trade between Nepal Araniko Highway, the main trade in-land trade, trade between the two and China is growing, it is largely route between Nepal and China, countries itself has been growing unilateral with Nepal’s export including Syafrubesi-Rasuwagadhi, over the years. According to Nepal covering just 2.3 percent of total another route for Nepal-China trade adversely affected Nepal’s key not sure whether the goods meant Rastra Bank (NRB), the central trade with China. that was formally opened last year. exports to China such as wheat for Nepal’s two biggest festivals bank of the country, bilateral trade Officials and traders say that Tatopani and Rasuwagadi both flour, handicrafts, incense sticks –Dashain and Tihar - could be between the two countries has Nepal does not have enough fall in the districts most affected by and Pashmina, as they are usually brought through the route. The one reached Rs 94 billion as of the products to export to China. the earthquake—Sindhupalchowk exported to China via the Tatopani month festive period is the time first 11 months of the last fiscal Non-tariff barrier time and again and Rasuwa. There are no other route. when almost 40 percent of the total year 2014-15, which is a healthy from the Chinese side have affected viable inland routes to use for On the other hand, importers goods imported for the year is sold, 12 percent of Nepal’s total foreign Nepal’s export to China, although Nepal-China bilateral trade at the in Nepal are worried after failing according to the traders. trade. Nepal’s northern neighbor has moment. As a result, traders said to bring in Chinese good worth China is one of the main sources Nepal’s major exports to offered duty free access to more that they have been forced to import Rs 5-6 billion that remain stuck at of imported commodities such as China are handicrafts, tanned skin than 8000 Nepalis goods, according goods through sea route, which is Khasa-based warehouses even three garment, footwear and electronic and woolen carpets while major to them. both time consuming and expensive months after the quake. They are for a landlocked country like Nepal. According to the Department of Customs, inland trade covers 25 percent of Nepal’s total trade with China. Department of Customs has said that although it has set up its “Closure of main inland routes hinders temporary offices at less vulnerable places nearby original customs offices—Adheri in Sindhupalchowk Chinese exports to Nepal” and Syaphrubesi in Rasuwa–trade and commercial activities has It has been three months that almost come to a standstill between the sea route, it is the route will the two main inland routes from Have Chinese exports to Nepal the two countries as the main inland becoming rather become fully where most of Chinese goods suffered owing to this? routes connecting the two countries difficult for them as operational again, come to Nepal have remained Yes. After being unable to remain damaged owing to the April the process is both and traders are also non-operational as they have import Chinese goods from the 25 earthquake and endless series of time consuming not waiting for that suffered major damage in the land route, many traders are now aftershocks, including landslides as well as costly. to happen. This is recent earthquakes. How has this starting to bring in goods from India, triggered by the torrential rains. Even small traders because they have affected Nepal-China bilateral Bangladesh, Thailand and even Due to risk of landslide could bring little their businesses to trade? Indonesia. We have received report in Tatopani and damages consignments of take care of. But Chinese goods worth Rs 5-6 that huge consignments of goods to government buildings in Chinese goods the fact that it takes billion currently remain stuck at are coming in from Bangkok. Small Rasuwagadhi, customs officers were through the great deal of time warehouses in Khasa. In terms of traders are now starting to bring in shifted to safer places nearby. Tatopani route to import Chinese quantity, some 300 trucks of goods Bacchu Poudel readymade garments and footwear Although the Nepal Army and like before, but goods via the sea such as readymade garments, Senior Vice President from India. Due to the closure of the China’s People’s Liberation Army now they cannot route than the land electronic equipment and footwear Nepal Trans Himalaya Border two inland routes, Chinese exports to have cleared the debris strewn along do so through the route and is also that were bound for Nepal currently Commerce Association Nepal have definitely suffered. the Araniko Highway (Kathmandu- sea route. Some costly is definitely remain stuck in the Chinese town. Tatopani road) to enable free and traders have even creating problems These Chinese goods are meant Is there any possibility of unrestricted movement of goods, been found creating for the traders. for the summer season, and if they importing Chinese goods via officials say that there is little groups to import We can import cannot be brought instantly, we have Rasuwgadhi as this route has chance of fresh consignments goods through the Chinese goods in to wait for another year to sell them. suffered relatively less damages coming through this route owing to sea route. Small just two weeks than Tatopani? the risk of landslides. traders who were through land route, How do you plan to bring We are ready to bring the goods “We are waiting for the monsoon unable to form but the same takes Chinese goods for the upcoming that are stuck in China through season to be over to start upgrading such groups to more than a month festivals as the roads have still not whichever route that becomes and maintaining these roads and import goods have through the sea come into operation even three operational first. The tragic bring them into normal operation,” huge loans to pay and could suffer route. Even if the two inland routes months after the earthquake? earthquake that struck Nepal on says Naindra Upadhaya, secretary massive losses in their businesses. becomes operational again for the Many traders have started April 25 showed that there should at the Ministry of Commerce and Dashain festival, we don’t know bringing Chinese goods through be multiple routes between two Supplies. Do you think the two inland how will the condition of the roads the sea route. However, as most of countries in order to ensure smooth According to him, the routes would become operational be and whether we would be able to these traders don’t know how to and effective bilateral trade and obstruction of the key trade road soon? import the huge amount of goods we properly bring the goods through commerce. for more than three months has Sadly, it is still not clear when usually do from the route. NOMY AUGUST 2015 5 China emerging as major aid donor Conference on Nepal Nepal government due to failure of Nepal to offer good Reconstruction. has been poor, China investment climate. The two countries should also take Chinese investors have the pledged almost half necessary steps to capacity to invest billions of of total $4.4 billion ensure that projects dollars. When China Three Gorges aid committed for are completed on Corporation purchased Portugal’s reconstruction. time. For example, big electricity company, it was in talk I think there is a the work of Ring with the Nepal government to invest growing realization Road expansion in 750MW West Seti Hydropower BY RAMESHORE KHANAL among our neighbors which is being Project. The company is one of the that Nepal should undertaken by using big investors with huge financial China has not officially declared not lag behind when Chinese grant and by resources in China. Nepal should also itself as Nepal’s development partner they achieve huge involving Chinese address the issues of land acquisition because it itself is a developing economic success. contractor has been and labour problems In the case of country. The coastal areas of eastern Both nations have stalled since the India, some big Indian companies like China have developed to a great realized that if Nepal earthquake. However, Dabur and Arati Steel have invested extent, but central and western remains under- there has been no in Nepal to export goods chiefly to China have huge development developed and effort to make the India from Nepal. needs. Despite this, China has been becomes a centre for contractor resume the We talked about developing a providing support to neighbors criminal activities, stalled work. special economic zone in Panchkhal like Nepal. Now, with the booming it will have adverse The Chinese government had constructed the 132-bed Civil Service China as an where Chinese investors could be economy and enlarged foreign impact on the security Hospital in Kathmandu at a cost of Rs 650 million attracted to export goods to China. exchange reserves, China has been of both China and India. investment However, there has been little effort increasing its aid to Nepal and other Both are concerned that to build necessary infrastructure there. least developed countries in Africa. Nepal could become partner As far as areas where Chinese In the past, China used to provide fertile ground for Although Chinese assistance to Nepal investment can be attracted are just grants. Over the last decade, it has criminal groups, and There is growing concerned, we have witnessed also been a major provider of loans. It both are concerned has been increasing, the poor project interest among that big investment is coming in does this in a way that its exports are about the influence of Chinese government hydropower sector. The investment also promoted. China Exim Bank has the western countries implementation has not only worried us, but officials, members for 50MW Upper Marsyangdi been providing billions of dollars in in Nepal. The top also the Chinese of the private sector and 750MW West Seti are small loans around the world. leadership of both and the intellectual investment from China as the Chinese Few years ago, Nepal sought India and China have community to companies have the capacity and around $200 million from the bank. started to talk about the increase Chinese expertise to develop 10,000MW After China approved the loan, one situation in Nepal, in increased the bargaining power of investment in projects. hydropower project, Upper Trishuli addition to their bilateral agenda. Nepal while dealing with the World Nepal. Having an interest in Given the growing Chinese 3A, is under construction and the Besides getting an annual grant Bank and Asian Development Bank. something is one thing, but making tourists arrivals in Nepal, we can construction of Pokhara Regional and loan from Exim Bank, Nepal We can not only get financial actual investment is quite another. attract big investment in tourism International Airport is all set to can also get huge grants and loans assistance from China, but also get it The Chinese side complains infrastructure such as big hotels. begin. from China from its other financial under our own conditions. But, Nepal about deliberate obstructions and There is also potential to attract China has been saying that $200 institutions. Not only Exim Bank, should have the desire and capacity to impediments in the implementation of Chinese investment in agriculture million is not the limit for Nepal, it there are other development banks use those resources effectively. projects. processing in which Chinese have has been ready to extend additional that can offer even bigger resources. If the country cannot use the The Chinese investors have expertise and they can export the amount if Nepal wants. China has Even the Nepali private sector can grants, loans and aids provided to it, the habit of working without any processed goods to China. We increased both grant and loan amount get financial resources from Chinese the money will go elsewhere as there obstruction and strikes in China. can attract Chinese investment in to Nepal over the period. Chinese banks such as China Development are many countries with huge need A whole generation in China has automobile sector also. Nepal’s annual grant to Nepal has been Bank. of financial resources. Afghanistan, grown up in this obstruction-free automobile and auto part market has increased to RMB800 million from The Asian Infrastructure Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam are environment. grown to around Rs50 billion. This around RMB100 million few years Investment Bank (AIIB) and Silk among the countries having huge So, creating a climate where they is not a small market. Similarly, there ago. Road Fund are other institutions from need of resources and they have can work without hindrance is very is also the possibility of attracting Why China and India can where Nepal can get resources for utilized Chinese finances heavily. much important to attract Chinese Chinese investment in medical herbs both emerge as big aid partner for development projects. Following the Although Chinese assistance to investment. We have seen small processing in which China has very Nepal has also been reflected in establishment of these international Nepal has been increasing, the poor investment from China in the area of good expertise. the recent pledges made by the two financing institutions, new avenues project implementation has not only restaurant and hotels, but we have not (Khanal is the Former Finance neighbors during the International have opened for Nepal to get worried us, but also the Chinese. seen big investors coming to Nepal Secretary, Government of Nepal) international financing. It has also While project management of

First Chinese NGO registered INFO Key China-assisted projects in Nepal

in Nepal to assist in post- Economic and Technical Cooperation 4. Sunkoshi-Kathmandu Electricity Line Transmission Road and Transport Project 1. Arniko Highway 2. Arniko Highway (Rehabilitation) Other Construction Projects quake reconstruction 3. Kathmandu-Bhaktapur Road 1. National Trading Complex 4. Prithvi Highway and Surface Pitch Paving 2. Warehouse at Kathmandu and Birgunj KATHMANDU : China 5. Narayanghat-Mugling Road 3. City Hall in Kathmandu. has registered its first NGO in 6. Gorkha-Narayanghat Road 4. Birendra International Convention Centre Nepal to channelize aid funds 7. Kathmandu-Bhaktapur Trolly Bus 5. Consolidating Seti River Bridge in Pokhara to assist in the reconstruction of 8. Kathmandu Ring Road 6. Nepal Television Metro Channel Station Expansion the quake-ravaged Himalayan 9. Pokhara-Baglung Road and Improvement country. 10. Seti River Bridge at Pokhara 7. Polytechnic Institute in Banepa The Chinese NGO, China 11. Syaphrubesi-Rasuwagadhi Road Project 8. Air-cargo inspection system in Tribhuvan International Foundation for Poverty Airport Alleviation (CFPA) , signed a Industries 9. Khasa-Kathmandu Optical Fiber Project general agreement to this effect 1. Bansbari Leather and Shoes Factory with Social Welfare Council 2. Hetauda Cotton Textile Mills Ongoing Nepal-China Economic and Technical (SWC) on August 13. 3. Harisidhi Brick Factory Cooperation This non-profitable 4. Bhaktapur Brick Factory 1. Upper Trishuli 3A Hydropower Project humanitarian organization 5. Industrial Gloves and Apron Manufacturing at 3. Kathmandu Ring Road Improvement project with has extended an assistance of research and rescue, food Bansbari flyover bridges 500,000 USD to Nepal for its supply, drinking water, epidemic 6. Bhrikuti Paper Mills 4. Tatopani Frontier Inspection Station Project reconstruction in the next five prevention, sanitation, temporary 7. Lumbini Sugar Mills 5. Acquisition of Aircraft under the Chinese Grant years. settlement, among others. 6. Procurement of Aircraft under the Chinese “The registration of our It had mobilized 300 Health Government Concessional Loan office in Nepal signifies that we volunteers from six countries 1. B.P. Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital, Bharatpur. will be involved in post-disaster during the relief programs. 2. Civil Service Hospital Projects under Chinese assitance in the pipeline reconstruction and long-term “We expect that China 1. Kathmandu Ring Road Improvement Project- Phase II development of Nepal,” Wang Foundation for Poverty Sports 2. Pokhara International Regional Airport Xingzui, vice president of Alleviation will support to reduce 1. Sports Complex at Kathmandu and Lalitpur 3. Bahrabise-Larcha Road Upgrading Project China Foundation for Poverty poverty in Nepal,” Rabindra 2. Construction of Sports Facilities for the 8th South 4. Ten (10) Schools Project in North hilly region Alleviation, said after the signing Kumar, member secretary at Asian Federation Games in 1999 5. China-Nepal Agriculture Technical Cooperation Project ceremony. Social Welfare Council said. 6. Timure Frontier Inspection Station Project The foundation has been China Foundation for Poverty Water Resources 7. Rasuwagadi Dry Port working in Nepal immediately Alleviation is the 240th INGO 1. Sunkoshi Hydroelectricity Plant 8. Installation of Solar Energy in Singhadurbar after the April 25 quake in registered in Nepal. 2. Pokhara Water Conservancy and Irrigation Project Source: Profile of Development Partners 2014, 3. Sunkoshi Vicinity Electricity Transmission Project Ministry of Finance 6 AUGUST 2015

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Swoyambhu Kalanki SUNRISE FURNITURE Pvt. Ltd. Sitapaila Sitapaila, Kathmandu, Nepal Chowk Tel : 977-1-4274572, 4034625 Ramkot Mbl : 9803872752, 9851230075, 9851230077 E-mail : [email protected] Web : srfurniture.com.np AUGUST 2015 AVIATION 7 Chinese aircraft are technically Nepal-China aviation cooperation reaches new heights sound and equally safe In an exclusive interview with APD, Sugat Rana Kansakar, Managing Director of Nepal Airlines Corporation said that fleet expansion will allow NAC to serve the tourism industry of Nepal that has suffered due to the recent earthquakes in the best possible manner. He further said that NAC plans to commence direct flights to many Chinese cities so that more Chinese tourists would visit Nepal.

Nepal Airlines Corporation NAC plans to commence (NAC) has come up with a direct flights to many cities 10-year business strategy in mainland China so it can to turn the national flag intervene in pricing and carrier into a professional ensure that more Chinese and commercial entity. tourists would visit Nepal. Could you elaborate on this? China has gifted two NAC adopted an 56-seater turboprop- expansion strategy powered aircraft to Nepal immediately after I made national carrier as part Former Director General of CAAN Ratish Chandra Lal Suman (left) and an entry for the second of efforts to revive latter’s China CAMC Engineering’s Chairman Lou Yan exchange agreement time. When we talk about domestic operations with documents in Kathmandu. expanding our route maps, a revamped fleet. But in there is an urgent need the media, Chinese aircraft KATHMANDU: Aviation Guangzhou. for fleet expansion. The have been portrayed in a cooperation between China and Likewise, Nepal’s Ministry business created by the very negative. Why? Nepal has taken a great leap forward of Culture, Tourism and Civil passenger movement through Chinese aircraft are with the signing of a revised Aviation in November 2013 had Kathmandu is around technically sound and equally bilateral air services agreement signed a commercial agreement Rs100 billion a year for safe as any other aircraft. So, (ASA), procurement of Chinese- with AVIC International, a Chinese the international airlines. We have purchase from those quoting lower passengers are not afraid of boarding price. Airbus quoted lower price made aircraft and a pact to build an government undertaking, to buy 6 just 3-4 percent market share while Chinese aircraft. The problem lies international airport in Nepal. new aircraft. The governments of foreign airlines occupy the lion’s compared to Boeing and that’s why somewhere else. What we have we went for Airbus. On February 24, 2014, China China and Nepal signed a grant and share, over 95percent of the market. found is that the Chinese planes have and Nepal signed the revised ASA, concessional loan agreement worth We must be able to increase our higher load penalty, which means permitting the operation of 56 Rs 6.67 billion (408 million RMB) market share and, for this, we need to NAC purchased two narrow-body you cannot fly in full capacity. If we airbuses recently. How did it help flights per week with any types of to procure six aircraft. Two of the expand both the number of route and cannot use all the seats available, aircraft on a reciprocal basis. Under planes—MA60 and Y12e—have concurrently the size of our fleet. to regain your market share? we cannot make profits and have to Following the arrival of two new the old ASA, airlines of the both already joined the Nepal Airlines suffer business-wise. After we raised countries were allowed to operate Corporation (NAC) fleet, and the You have just added two airbus aircraft, our market share is slowly this issue, the Chinese manufacturer expanding. The biggest achievement only 14 flights per week. remaining four aircraft—three Y12e planes to your fleet. Are you promised that they will do one more Moreover, under the revised and a MA60—are expected to join looking to acquire more aircraft? is that we have improved our round of test in China. We are waiting reliability with new planes. pact, an additional seven flights NAC soon. Of course, expanding the size of for the flight test report. They have per week will be added annually One of the important projects the fleet is our immediate plan. Along We have seen growing number of said that it will be delivered by the Chinese tourists coming to Nepal to increase the number of flights that the government of China has with this, the revitalization of the end of August. to 70 per week by the year 2016. supported Nepal in the recent times organization management is our next in the recent years. Do you think China could emerge as big market The revised agreement has given committed to provide the $215.96 priority. Nepal’s tourism industry has unlimited traffic rights for cargo- million soft loan to build the for NAC? been devastated by the April 25 Definitely, we have got two only flights with any types of much-awaited Pokhara Regional Why is NAC intent towards earthquake. Do you have any aircraft. It has also permitted International Airport. On May acquiring Airbus, but not Boeing? neighbors with the largest populations specific plan to revive the sector? in the world, but Nepal has not been bilateral and third-party code- 22, 2014, Nepal’s Civil Aviation It is very much expensive to have We are holding discussions with sharing by the carriers of the two Authority of Nepal awarded the both Airbus and Boeing in our fleet able to capitalize on this. Unless our tourism entrepreneurs on this matter. airlines go there and help bring down countries. contract to build the airport to because in that case we would need A few days ago, I had a meeting with Under the pact, China has China CAMC Engineering Co two sets of engineers and pilots for the airfare, we cannot bring adequate general manger of a five start hotel to number of tourists from these two allocated Nepali carriers with a and construction on the project is that. The rule of thumb is that unless discuss possibility of devising certain new point, Xian, one of the oldest expected to commence soon. you possess at least 15 -20 aircraft, big destinations. Currently, 3-4 packages together to attract tourists Chinese airlines are operating direct cities in China with more than The proposed airport is being never switch over to new ones. Six in Nepal. Plus, with the increased 3,100 years of history. With this built at Chinnedanda, 3 km to the years back when we had just Boeing, flights between Kathmandu and number of fleet, NAC can serve various Chinese cities. Their airfare new point, Nepali carriers are east of the existing domestic airport better choice should have been to Nepal’s tourism industry in the best permitted to fly into seven different in Pokhara. Nepal and China is go for Boeing. But government law is relatively higher when it comes possible manner. to bringing passengers to Nepal. So points in China —Chengdu, Lhasa, scheduled to sign the proposed loan says that government entity should Beijing, Kunming, Shanghai and agreement by August this year. Second Int’l Airport in Nijgadh can also be built with Chinese investment

There is almost a single voice in Pokhara that the much delayed Pokhara Regional International Airport should be constructed at the earliest. China, as the long-standing development partner of Nepal, has offered soft loans for the project. However, the project faced initial hiccups as it courted controversy and went through problem related to land acquisition. Therein came CPN-UML lawmaker Rabindra Adhikari, who played a crucial role in settling the nagging disputes that delayed the project and paved the way for the construction of one of the key “national pride projects” of the country. Adhikari, who hails from Pokhara and who won his Constituent Assembly seat from a constituency Rabindra Adhikari in Kaski, coordinated the High-Level Facilitation Committee to push the project ahead. APD talked to Adhikari about the project, factors that Chairman of Parliamentary hindered efforts to ensure that the project will see the light of day, including Chinese cooperation and investment in Nepal’s aviation sector: Development Committee

How has been the progress the loan negotiation and we are Moreover, at a time when the smoothly. As almost all the building and upgrading Nepal’s towards the construction of confident that things will go ahead country’s sole international airport necessary preparations for the domestic airports. Pokhara Regional International smoothly from then on. is in Kathmandu, the construction project have already been completed, Airport? of another international airport in signing of the loan agreement is the Pokhara has also emerged as a The acquisition of additional What is the importance of this Pokhara will also help decentralize only remaining part of the project popular destination for Chinese land required for the construction project for Pokhara as well as the development efforts. before construction work on the tourists coming to Nepal. What of Pokhara Regional International whole country? regional international airport begins. changes the arrival of Chinese Airport is almost complete. Now we Pokhara is the tourism capital What are the countries that will tourists has brought in this tourist can say that all the land necessary for of Nepal, and the construction of be directly connected with the Do you find any possibility of hub? the construction of the national pride regional international airport here international airport in Pokhara? Chinese investment in other Increased inflow of Chinese project has been acquired. In fact, would play an important role in I think in the initial phase major airports to be built in the tourists in Pokhara has helped to almost all the necessary preparation boosting its tourism prospect. Most destinations in China and India will country ? boost the local economy. Chinese for the project has been completed of the tourists who come to Nepal, be directly connected with Pokhara If the performance of the tourists are also spending well and from Nepal’s side. We are now including Indian and Chinese regional international airport. Chinese contractor during the concurrently Chinese investment looking forward to a loan negotiation tourists, visit Pokhara at least once. construction of Pokhara regional has also grown in the lake city. with China Exim Bank to give a Therefore, enabling them to reach How much hopeful are you that international airport is deemed Several hotels and restaurants go-ahead for the construction of a this popular tourist hub directly this project will now move ahead satisfactory, Chinese investment have been opened with Chinese regional international airport in the and without any kind of hassle by without any hiccups and will not can be attracted for the construction investments. There has also been tourist city of Pokhara. We have constructing an international airport be delayed again? of Nijgadh International Airport growing Chinese investment in heard that a team from China Exim would be a key milestone in the I am very much confident too. There is also scope for hydropower and other sectors in Bank is arriving in Nepal soon for tourism development of Pokhara. that the project will move ahead increased Chinese investment in and around Pokhara. 8 EDUCATION AUGUST 2015 universities in China have been to their universities to do the facing a similar situation. Many of internship. these students were either selected The students, however, think for scholarship by MoE or by the that this is not practical. They argue Chinese Embassy in Nepal; some that the universities cannot provide paid for their studies themselves. extra courses that are not in their They have completed their curriculum. Majority of medical study with an internship and colleges in China offer five-year acquired an equivalency certificate courses only. from Tribhuvan University (TU). According to Upasana But they have not been able to work Manandhar, who finished her as doctors. “It is the government MBBS from China in 2015, her itself that sent us to China to study university has no provision to MBBS. How can it deny us from conduct MBBS course for more taking licensing exam after we than five years. “We spoke to the university administration. They say there is no room to extend the Officials at the Education study,” she said. “We have been trapped.” She argues that as it was Ministry say they are MoE which issued a ‘No Objection Certificate’ to students going to exploring all avenues China, it is their duty to resolve to resolve the genuine the problem immediately. MoE officials, however, say they are problem of students who exploring all avenues to resolve the photo/Sunil Sharma genuine problem of students who completed their MBBS completed their MBBS from China. from China. “After the Cabinet decision, the ball is now in NMC’s court,” said MoE Medical grads denied licensing test spokesperson Hari Lamsal. After their frequent effort bore invested precious five years of our no fruit, the students are looking at lives,” questions Limbu. two options: dealing with After concluding that the ‘ban’ problem through the diplomatic China education was unfair, the Cabinet in February channel or taking legal action. decided to allow them to intern Araniko Society, an association in Nepali hospitals to resolve the of Nepali students who graduated problem. However, the NMC said from China, is taking the lead to it will not abide by the Cabinet find a solution through diplomatic decision as its regulation makes means. Dr Sarbottam Shrestha, background brings bad luck it mandatory for each student to chairman of the society, said he complete 5.5 years of medical has already talked to the Chinese education. It argued that allowing Embassy in Nepal for a solution. Province-based Wuhan University, practice medicine in Nepal. NMC those students to intern would set The embassy has assured that it will BY APD REPORTER he returned hoping to start his license is mandatory to practice a bad precedent. “The Cabinet raise the issue with the government medical career. medicine in Nepal. decision was made bypassing of Nepal. If the problem remains But his dream was shattered Visiting various government our legal provisions. We cannot unresolved, the students are Happiness knew no bounds for when the Nepal Medical Council ministries, government officials implement that,” said Dr Dharma planning to knock the door of the Aadesh Lawati Limbu when he was (NMC), the government authority and leaders from political parties to Kanta Banskota, chairman of NMC. Supreme Court. “We have lost more selected under scholarship quota that issues medical license, did not find a solution to the problem has He argued that students should than a year lobbying. We can’t of Ministry of Education to study allow him to sit for licensing test. become a daily-routine for Limbu complete their six-month internship afford to lose any more,” said Bibek MBBS in China in 2008. After The council barred him from for the last one year. from their own university. He Shrestha, another MBBS graduate completing four years of theory taking the test saying those who Limbu, however, is not alone. further said that the government from China who feels victimized by and one year of internship in Hubei have less than 5.5 years of study Around 100 students from the has started diplomatic negotiations the government injustice towards are not eligible to get the license to 2008 and 2009 batch from various to allow the students to go back them.

Confucius Institute at Kathmandu University

Call for Contribution

To commemorate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and the People’s Republic of China, Asia Pacific Daily (APD) cordially invites you to share your thoughts -- in the form of articles and essays -- on what China symbolizes for you, how have personally benefited from political, economic, academic, cultural and social cooperation between Nepal and the People’s Republic of China and what needs to be done at the grass-root level to enhance the close and friendly ties between the two countries. Your article written in English must reach us by August 30, 2015. Payment: Rs 5 per word. Stories must be original and exclusively for APD. Please email to [email protected] AUGUST 2015 CULTURE 9

Ragini Upadhyaya, the first Do your themes change over time? ever woman Chancellor of Nepal Yes, definitely. An artist cannot My current goal as Academy of Fine Arts talks to be separated from the society, no an artist and the Asia Pacific Daily about how matter what. I cannot be independent China and Nepal are both very of issues that surround me. My Chancellor of Nepal rich in Arts and Culture. She says themes are largely inspired by the each country has its own set of socio-political issues that surround Academy of Fine Arts is strengths and beauty that can be me at any particular time. However to dedicate myself in the shared with the other. there are some recurrent themes like religion and cultural tolerance, power quest of reconstruction How did your journey in the arts of time, goddess and women and sector begin? mythology vs. reality. and restoration of Art became a part of my life affected art and cultural when I was as young as 10-11 years How difficult is it for artists to old. I connected to art as soon as I sustain in this field? heritages first. laid my hands on the sketch book If an artist is passionate and for the first time, and then it never works hard enough, it’s not difficult. stopped. I guess it always felt very Of course, every field comes with natural, very me. But I decided to its own set of struggles but honestly, pursue my career in the field because I have survived on art and art alone self-sustaining local art forms. We are of my school art teacher who pushed all these years. I never sought for petitioning the Ministry of Education me to master my skills. She was a job outside the field. In Nepal, to include art as a compulsory always supportive of my gift even you may not become a billionaire curriculum in schools too. Recently, when other teachers thought I made a by making art, but you’ll definitely we have managed to land yearly bad student. live a respectful life. You just have scholarships for two brilliant Nepali to put yourself ouout there, put your artists in kind cooperation from his One of Ragini’s artworks that was on display at a recent art exhibition in Kathmandu. Excellency Wu Chuntai. Starting this year, two students will pursue their post-graduation in Fine Arts with scholarship from China. To create a beautiful and How can art and culture strengthen the relationship between Nepal and its close neighbor China? China and Nepal are both very rich strong platform for artists in Art and Culture. Each country has its own set of strengths and beauty that can be shared with the other. Art and Culture always makes a the longest time in history, art and to the ground. It is going to cost workwork outo there for the beautiful bridge between any two culture of Nepal has been drawing the country fortunes and half-a- countries. China has managed to art lolovers to see. If it is crowds from across the world. decade’s time to rebuild and restore goodgoo work, people will create a beautiful and strong platform More art means more the number of all our precious heritages. Secondly, for its artists to learn and grow connectcon to it and once visitors and more the visitors, higher the market is dead. Because the peoplepe connect to while we are yet to reach there. the economic capital. Thankas, local consumption is poor, the Hence, I imagine that extensive youryo art, recognition sculptures and other handicrafts industry largely relies upon tourism is inevitable. workshops and interregional crafted in Nepal are celebrated and tourism industry is facing a exchange programs would help across the world. Tourists constantly dreadful decline in the aftermath of HowH is the art strengthen the relationship between invest and take home the art pieces earthquake. two countries. industry in Nepal as souvenirs of Nepal. Every year contributing to the consignments are signed and closed How are you contributing to the national economy? What is your artistic outlook on in 9 digit figures. So, I have to say society as the Chancellor of NAFA? life? Art and culture the contribution is considerable. I am working in the quest of definitelyd makes Life is a journey with ups preserving and restoring the local and downs. You always have a a strong, tangible How has the earthquake affected art and culture that are in the verge contributionc to the destination to reach; you always the industry? of extinction across the country. The have a purpose to pursue. And you nationalna economy, Firstly, the devastations academy is aggressively conducting butbu it has not been can only complete this journey are heartbreaking. Incredible seminars, workshops and successfully if you are absolutely recognizedrec properly architectures were brought down exhibitions to involve women in inin oour country. For honest about what you love.

Arniko in China China to renovate historic Nautale Durbar, in western part of today’s BY BISHNU HARI NEPAL Beijing (1271-1279). He also shows interest in restoring Swayambhunath made another “White Pagoda” and Swayambhunath for the King Jaya Bhima Malla in the central part of Wu-tai preservation of cultural relics and of Nepal (1257-71) sent an Mountains in 1301, from where APD REPORTER to revitalise the tourism industry 80-member team of artists Manjushree is believed to in Nepal. led by Arniko to Tibet. After have come to Nepal. This was Nepal has accepted China’s Marasini informed that many reaching Tibet in 1261, constructed after the death of offer to renovate the historic nations have showed interest in Arniko and his group of artists Kublai Khan in 1294. Arniko’s Nautale Durbar (nine-storied rebuilding Swayambhunath, parts constructed famous Buddhist major contributions in China palace) at Kathmandu Durbar of which had been damaged by Pagodas (Golden Pagoda in were: 3 stupas, 9 Buddhist Square while China could the quake. Lhasa during Yuan Dynasty). temples, 2 Confusian shrines, additionally also help renovate “There has been talk on In 1262, Arniko was invited by a Daoist Temple and countless Swayambhunath, government forging a partnership with China the Mongol Emperor Kublai number of Buddhist images officials have said. on rebuilding this World Heritage Khan in Dadu (Beijing) where and objects for the Emperor, Both historic structures, which Assistant Minister for Commerce Zhang site too, but there has been no he constructed many beautiful imperial household, court are part of Kathmandu Valley World Xiangchen in July this year. Late King concrete decision on the matter,” he said. pagodas, including “White and the people of China and Heritage Site, were damaged by the Prithivi Narayan Shah, who initiated the According to Marasini, the Pagoda” at Miao Ying Temple Mongolia. devastating April 25 earthquake. According to Madhu Marasini, chief expansion of Nepali nation-state, built renovation works would be carried out of international cooperation coordination this mansion to commemorate his victory with a portion of the grant assistance of division at the Finance Ministry, the two over Kathmandu in 1768. 3 billion RMB pledged by China during sides had agreed on China helping to During his visit, Zhang had said the International Conference on Nepal’s rebuild the Nautale Durbar at Kathmandu that China would prioritize overall Reconstruction held in Kathmandu on Durbar Square during the visit of China’s restoration of Kathmandu Durbar Square June 25. 10 SPECIAL REPORT AUGUST 2015 Former PMs mantra Nepal can act as a to consolidate bridge between China Nepal-China partnership and South Asia

for the 21st century has always endeavored to make its rapid development benefit Nepal by supporting latter’s socio-economic development. Nepal has reciprocated the gesture As Nepal and China celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of through its firm support to China on issues diplomatic relationship between the two countries, Krandan Chapagain of concerning China’s core interests. Asia Pacific Daily (APD) asked former prime ministers of Nepal what needs Therefore, in the coming days Nepal to be done to further strengthen the age-old and cordial ties between the and China should strive to transcend the narrow boundaries of traditional two countries in the rapidly changing world. Describing Nepal-China relation relationship and forge a socio-economic as an “ideal relation” that is devoid of serious problems, they were almost partnership to meet the challenges of the unanimous on the issue of catapulting economic relations to new heights rapidly changing times. For this, Nepal through political and diplomatic means. should seek China’s help to develop key infrastructures like road and railways to create a strong base for economic growth. Late Prithivi Narayan Shah had defined Dr Baburam BhattaraiB Nepal’s situation as like that of “a yam (29(29 AuAugustgust 2011 – 14 March 2013) between two boulders” to demonstrate Nepal’s vulnerability as a nation-state We should place more emphasis on between China and India. However, after The year 2015 marks ththe 60th I took over as country’s prime minister, I anniversaranniversaryy of the establisestablishmenth of reiterated my belief that Nepal should stop economic diplomacy diplomatic relations betwebetweene Nepal and perceiving itself as a “yam between China CChina.hina. The two countries sshouldh not only and India” but use its unique geographical objectivesectives of socio-economic development. ccelebrateelebrate this year with varvariousi programs, location to act a “vibrant bridge” between Enhancingancing bilateral economic and trade iincludingncluding exchange of visitvisitss at the highest the two rapidly growing economies of relationshiptionship while extending much-needed llevel,evel, but also take it as an oopportunity to India and China. Infact, Nepal can be a helpp and ssupportupport to each other in times rrevieweview the past and seek ccommono areas bridge between China and South Asia and of needeed will promote mutually beneficial ooff cooperation. Relations bbetweene the two play a crucial role in maintaining peace cooperationperation in the rapidly changing 21st nneighborseighbors have served as aann example of and stability in the region. centuryury world where Nepal and China have brilliant harmonious existeexistencen as China emergedrged as strategic partners in pursuit of commonmmon goalsgoals.. CChinahina has put emphasis on friendship withh neineighboringghboring countries since the new governmenternment under President Xi JiJinpingnping tookk office and has expressed readiness We should secure fruitful economic, to helpelp Nepal in various prioritized areas. Despitepite facing severe challenges, ChinChinaa was able to construct a high-elevation technical cooperation with China Qinghai-Tibetghai-Tibet railway and is positive towardsards expanding the railway line to China,China, which is tipped tto become the the NNepaliepali border. China’s rapid railwrailwayay world’s largest economy soon,so could play Madhav Kumar Nepal expansionansion in the region will facilitate a kekeyy role in NeNepal’spal’s sociosocio-economic- bilateralteral tradetrade,, tourism and other economic development. But this will hhappen only if (25 May 2009 – 6 February 2011) activitiesvities by enhancing better connectivity Nepal manages to secure frfruitfulu economic betweenween the two countries. HoweverHowever,, the and technical cooperation wwith China. protractedracted political instability that plagues Nepal should also create aann enabling Nepal and China have always enjoyed Nepalal is the main reason it has failed to environment for Chinese ccompanieso to strong and healthy relations based on benefitefit from its close ties with CChina.hina. iinvestnvest in NeNepalpal while at ththee same time mutual trust, support, equality and mutual Therefore,refore, we have to first do away with nnurturingurturing the already cordicordiala ties between benefit. The two countries have win-win the iimpedimentsmpediments that are preventing Nepal thethe two countries and makmakee it dynamic ties that have been trouble-free since fromm realizing the full potential of its enough to meet the challenchallengesg of the ancient times. relationstions with China and focus on attractiattractingng rrapidlyapidly changing world. Nepal should place greater emphasis on Chinesenese businesses and investment in CChinahina recently contribucontributedt in providing economic diplomacy to further embolden Nepalal for the overall development and ccrucialrucial relief and logistic ssupportu in the Sher Bahadur Deuba its strong ties with China so as to realize its prosperitysperity of the country. aftermath of massive earthearthquakeq that hit (served as prime minister of Nepal three times) NeNepalpal on AAprilpril 25. So NeNepalpa should attach iimportancemportance to the China-NChina-Nepale friendly employment opportunities to raise the and good neighborly partnpartnership.e This is people’s living standards. The two also necessary if we want ttheh prosperity countries should steer their economic and development China hahass achieved in the relations and cooperations primarily China railway rrecentecent years to have a positivepositi impact on focusing on facilitating bilateral trade, oourur own development endeendeavors.a building necessary infrastructures and ChinaChina can also help propromotem enhancing better connectivity. network expansion industrializationindustrialization in NNepalepal aandn generate to Nepal will boost trade and tourism in China’s opportunity only favors a prepared Nepal South Asia Jhala Nath Khanal (6(6 FebruaryFebruary 2011 – 29 AugustAugust 2011)2011) WWhilehile continuing to remairemainn trade, investment, tourism Nepal and the People’s Republic of a vital force in Nepal’sNepal’s overaloveralll and transport in Nepal. This China not only enjoy a special relationship fromm the rapid economic and technological development by supporting will also significantly reduce that is defined by comprehensive advancementancement achieved by China in the iitsts drive for self sufficiency, over dependence of Nepal’s partnership in many areas, but are friendly last tthreehree decades and try to emulate it. CChinahina has never interfered iinn international trade and transit neighboring countries linked by the Concurrently,currently, the government should Nepal’s internal affairs. This on India and enhance better majestic mountains and rivers. Regular createte an enabling atmosatmospherephere to bring hhasas always been highly admiradmirede connectivity with other high-level visits, including enhanced in mmoreore ChChineseinese ininvestment.vestment. ChChineseinese and respected by the NepalesNepalesee countries. Apart from this, cooperation at the government-to- governmenternment is also planning to extend people. Both the countries Nepal should also seek ways government and people-to-people level the QQinghai-Tibetinghai-Tibet Railway to the bordeborderr hahaveve ffurtherurther cconsolidatedonsolidated ththeireir to increase Chinese investment have further strengthened the ancient ties of NNepalepal by 2020. The railway line could friendship on the basis of the in Nepal and learn from between the two countries. be linkednked to KathmanduKathmandu,, Pokhara and Five Principles of Peaceful technical advancement China has been extending crucial Lumbini,mbini, the birth place of Lord Buddha. CCoexistence.oexistence. CChina’shina’s Lokendra Bahadur Chand they have made. Nepal financial and technical support in many The rail line exexpansionpansion will helhelpp boost uunconditionalnconditional aassistancessistance (served( as prime minister of Nepal should strive to open more ttoo Nepal in the time of industries with the help key sectors of Nepal like agriculture, tradee and tourism in both Nepal and four times) tourism, infrastructure development, Chinana and strengthen mutual relationship nneedeed has also been hhighlyighly of Chinese expertise and hydropower, and irrigation. Therefore, betweenween the people of the two countries. appreciated by the Nepalese turn the country into some we should give top priority to enhancing The railway link will also be crucial in peoplepeople.. sort of a production hub to enhance Nepal’s Nepal-China relations and strive to take it economic,nomic, cultural and tourism promotion CChina’shina’s proposal to revive the old economic growth and overall development. to new heights. in Southouth AsiaAsia.. Silk Route has created the potpotentiale for What we need to bear in mind is that China’s Nepal should learn a lesson or two oopeningpening of new wave of oppoopportunitiesr in opportunity only favors a prepared Nepal. AUGUST 2015 READERS’ FORUM 11 China’s thirst for perfection Nepal’s ‘silky

it is USD 426.48 – about 10 times less than that of present day China. So, as we commemorate relations’ with China the 60th anniversary of the formal establishment of Nepal-China relations, Nepal should take this moment to get inspired by the exponential socio-economic growth of her northern neighbor. China and Nepal have been good friends since time immemorial. The marriage of BY SATISH WASTI our princess Bhrikuti to the Tibetan King Tsrong Chong The first thing that comes to Ghampo in the 7th century and my mind when I hear some one the White Stupa built by the great mention China is not the Great Nepali architect Araniko at the BY MAHENDRA SUBEDI Wall for which the country is Miaoying Temple in Beijng in famous for, but the unsatisfied the 13th century is a testimony faces of my Chinese friends at to this fact. Even before this, the China-- the second largest the closing ceremony of 46th two countries were connected economy of the world and Nepal’s International Physics Olympiad through different strings, the most immediate neighbor--has always (IPhO). The 46th IPhO was held important of which were religion inspired Nepal to do away with in Mumbai from 5 to 12 July latter’s social injustices and (in particular, Buddhism) and initiative is expected to give Nepal expressed readiness to amend the 2015 where around 400 high culture. Thus, it is quite unfair class discriminations through her school students from over 85 socialist initiatives and mouth- a much-needed boost to seize controversial agreement with India to overlook the fact that our the opportunities for economic over Lipulekh pass. Likewise, nations participated. I was one of friendship was not born on first watering development pace for the five participants representing some decades on. prosperity, further enhance bilateral Nepal is eagerly awaiting China to of August, 1955 but it has existed relations and enrich connectivity extend the Qinghai-Tibet railway to Nepal. since time immemorial. As Nepal and China are You might find it rather celebrating the 60th anniversary for the greater good of both the the border areas by 2020, begin the So, it is high time now for countries. construction works on the regional- surprising but their discontent Nepal to feel her responsibility of establishment of diplomatic was not a consequence of relations between the two countries China is the second largest level international airport in by organizing various events trading partner of Nepal, but the Pokhara and Chinese FDI in some this year, the two countries are latter’s huge trade deficit with other mega projects to give a much- also exploring new avenues China should be a matter of needed boost to Nepal’s economy of mutual collaboration. It is concerns for both the countries. and development efforts badly hit expected that through such Despite China granting zero-tariff by the recent earthquakes. events mutual understanding and to 7,700 plus Nepali products, we On security ground, China- collaborations would be realized are yet to reap benefit from this Nepal should work together to in various levels and the bilateral lucrative opportunity at hand. combat trans-national crimes, comprehensive partnership between The northern neighbor has trafficking in human, smuggling the two countries will be further always extended valuable help and of gold and some medicinal herbs strengthened. support to Nepal during difficult and drug trafficking. Both the sides A high-level political visit times. The swiftness and alacrity should be equally responsible to from China, most probably from with which China engaged in promote a peaceful, stable and President Xi Jinping, is also in relief and rescue efforts in Nepal prosperous border. the offing this year: a diplomatic as the latter reeled under the death A faculty member at the Central afterglow to take the bilateral and devastation caused by the Department of English, Tribhuvan relations to new heights. Although earthquake is indeed praiseworthy University and also a poet, Mahesh the cultural exchanges between and proves that China is an all- Poudyal remarks that for a global weather friend. power—political, economic or The impressive skyline of Shanghai, China’s financial hub China and Nepal go back more than two millennia, the social, Furthermore, a large part of the cultural—like China, the immediate political, economic and cultural commitment of financial support attestation of its rise can come from poor performance in the IPhO basis for promotion of bilateral ties during the International Conference its neighbors, no matter how small to give some weight to this on Nepal’s Reconstruction for they may be in magnitude. A global examinations. In fact, they were friendship. Someone said: A true between these two friendly nations the only nation to win five gold have been growing strength to rebuilding and reconstruction of power can assert itself the best, friend is not the one who leads or earthquake damaged infrastructures only if it understands the socio- medals in the IPhO 2015. The follows, she is the one who walks strength since the establishment of reason for their discontent, I later diplomatic relations on August 1, in Nepal came from China, which political dynamics of its neighbors’ with you together. To act as a true will provide Nepal an amount equal best, he writes. Therefore, it is knew, was that they missed the friend of China, Nepal should 1955. awards for ‘Best in Theory’ and Nepal has always been to about US $500 million, and quite pertinent to see Nepal and keep her custom of sluggish all the support consists of grants. China leaving no stone unturned ‘Best in Experiment’ by not more economic growth aside and she supportive of China´s main than a small margin. The Chinese concerns, and is always vigilante Meanwhile, much to the delight to consolidate their relations both should create an environment of Nepali people, China has also politically and culturally. people’s thirst for perfection – for the fullest utilization of her against the possible occurrence which is reflected in the above resources in order to maintain of anti-Chinese activities from its anecdote – is probably the most a sustained and impressive soil. On the other hand, China, too, determining factor for this poor economic growth rate. has been appreciative of Nepal’s nation of the 1970s emerging And for this, China’s friendly gestures and is keen to as the world’s second largest support is very crucial. China’s take the relationship to greater economy today. increasing investments in Nepal heights by organizing high-level China’s economic growth are welcome, all the steps China meetings, cultural exchanges and kick-started in 1978. It was the has taken for the greater good of promoting other affairs. President year of the initiation of market both the nations are welcome. Xi Jinping’s announcement of reforms in China. According But moreover, China should peripheral diplomacy and the ‘Belt to the World Bank, the Gross help Nepal to stand on her feet, and Road Concept’ to contribute to Domestic Product (GDP) per especially after the devastating peace, development and stability capita of China that year was earthquake of April 25. China in China’s neighborhood and build USD 176.84. At present, i.e. should also believe in this small meaningful connectivity by road, in 2015, the GDP per capita of country’s ability to accomplish railways and maritime routes is China has risen to USD 3865.88. big miracles. Small as it is, the equally inspiring for Nepal. But the case with Nepal is quite sparrow has all the vital organs, Likewise, the Silk Road depressing. In 1978, the GDP per so goes a Chinese proverb. Economic Belt initiative taken capita of Nepal was USD 189.66, by China provides Nepal with more than that of China. In 2015, multiple prospects. The Silk Route

culture as he had done extensive research on the subject. We used My Chinese friend to talk for hours about what can be done to promote our tourism sector true when I met my first ever Chinese as well as our culture in each other’s BY DARSHAN NEUPANE friend who went by the name Zhang respective countries. Wei as my classmate back in the year Today, Wei is well settled in Commemorating the 60th 2001 in the University of North Texas, Beijing educating young Chinese anniversary of the establishment of Denton, Texas, USA. I was there on a people about the age-old friendly diplomatic relations between Nepal student visa and so was Wei. ties and mutual cooperation and the People’s Republic of China, I Zhang Wei was a top student of between China and Nepal. He was feel immense pleasure in sharing my our class and was very friendly and continuously in touch with me after life story associated with a Chinese down to earth person. We became the April 25 devastating earthquake friend. very close buddies in a very short and I would like to thank Wei and Even though I always dreamt span of time. Although I knew very other fellow Chinese people as well as of visiting China and meeting new little about the Chinese culture, Wei the Chinese Government for all their knew a lot about Nepal and Nepalese g friends there, my wish partially came help during those difficult hours. Website: activeprintingpress.com 12 TOURISM AUGUST 2015 China set to take over as No.1 tourist source

The April 25 earthquake has been a huge setback for Nepal’s tourism. But industry watchers say that movement from China would not be affected much Year No. of Chinese Nepal witnessed a constant growth in tourists Chinese arrivals since June 2009. 2002 8,715 as;dlkfj;asldkjf;lkj In February last year, Nepal and movement from China would not be 2003 7,562 increased spending has kept Nepal’s BY APD REPORTER China signed a revised bilateral air affected much. However, arrivals are tourism busy during the off season services agreement (ASA), permitting not likely to be the same as Nepal had 2004 13,326 too. For instance, hotels in Pokhara, India has long been the top the operation of 56 flights per week. received last year. 2005 22,377 Chitwan and Lumbini are filled with Under the old ASA, Chinese airlines Recently, nine tour operators from Chinese visitors throughout the year. tourism source market for Nepal. But 2006 17,538 that may be about to change. were allowed to operate 14 flights China were on a Nepal visit. This Realizing the growing Even as the number of Indian to Nepal every week. Moreover, was the first batch of tour and travel 2007 28,618 contribution of Chinese visitors visitors to Nepal continue to decline, under the revised pact, an additional operators to visit Nepal after the April 2008 35,166 in boosting Nepal’s tourism, the arrivals from China has been growing seven flights per week will be added 25 earthquake. The operators said government as well as the private at a double-digit rate over the past annually to increase it to 70 flights per that Chinese travellers were likely to 2009 32,272 sector has been stepping up their few years, thanks to increased airline week by 2016. resume Nepal tours from August. 2010 46,360 marketing efforts to lure the travellers “China has been investing heavily “Initially, we were under the from mainland China. connectivity and favourable Chinese 2011 61,917 policy towards Nepal. in Nepal’s key infrastructures-- impression that everything had been According to Pandey, Chinese Data provided by the Ministry of airports, hydropower, roads and destroyed in the earthquake. But 2012 71,861 spending has increased manifolds in tourism, and this trend is likely to now we see that except for a few the recent years. He says that they Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation 2013 113,173 shows that Nepal received 123,805 grow in the future,” says Nepal. places, most of Nepal’s cultural spend up to $800 for 7 nights/ 8 days Chinese tourists in 2014, a healthy Nepal witnessed a constant heritage and natural beauty are Total 458,885 packages. The budget travellers also rise of 10 percent year-on-year. growth in Chinese arrivals since June intact,” said Linli Ru, operator of IA have been spending up to $400 for 7 2009. Although Nepal had been given Holidays Guangzhou at an event in Number of Chinese tourists in night’s packages. During the same period, the number Nepal from 2002 to 2013. of Indians visiting Nepal decreased Approved Destination Status (ADS) Kathmandu. China has been the world’s largest by China in 2002, the number of According to Kishore Raj Pandey, (Source : Ministry of Culture, outbound tourism market since 2012, by 25 percent -- from 180,974 to Tourism and Civil Aviation) 135,343.. Chinese tourists was nominal until chairman of Saathi Nepal Travel and with a total expenditure of $29 billion The notable growth of Chinese few years ago. Tours, the April earthquake had put in 2013. Chinese government data tourists to Nepal can be gauged by Before 2000, Chinese tourists a break on the growth of Chinese Chinese tourists to Nepal would reach reveal that outbound tourists spent the fact that currently there are four were allowed to travel to Nepal only tourists to Nepal. Chinese arrivals 250,000 within a couple of years a record $164.8 billion overseas in airlines from China connecting Nepal. on official visits. Subsequently, the in the month of May and June were with increased flights between the 2014. In addition, two Nepali carriers—a central banks of the two countries almost zero and just a few Chinese two countries and land connectivity However, the length of stay of start-up private carrier Himalaya signed an agreement on bilateral tourists arrived in July. through Rasuwa and trans-Himalayan Chinese tourist in Nepal is very Airlines and the national flag carrier cooperation that allowed Chinese However, booking for August roads. nominal. The government statistics Nepal Airlines—plan to start flights to currency to be converted in Nepal in has so far been good. The number show that on an average, tourists mainland China in the near future. a bid to boost bilateral trade, tourism is expected to rise in September and from other countries stay in Nepal for Currently, Air China, China and economic cooperation. October, but not at the same level INCREASED SPENDING 12.51 days, while the Chinese tourists Southern, China Eastern and Sichuan as that of the last year. “The growth stay for 9.48 days. Airlines are operating direct flights momentum is likely to pick up from Few years back, tourism Ramesh Kumar Adhikari, chief to Nepal. “The Nepal government February 2016,” says Pandey, the first entrepreneurs used to complain administrator of Nepal Tourism has strongly supported key aviation OUTLOOK AFTER person to bring Chinese tourists to about comparatively low spending Board, the country’s tourism reforms aimed at increasing their EARTHQUAKE Nepal in 2002. “Chinese arrivals in by Chinese tourists in Nepal. But promotional body, says that a frequency. The policy indeed Nepal is likely to grow by leaps and things are starting to look different number of familiarization (FAM) has played a key role in boosting The April 25 earthquake has been bound in the coming years.” now. Though the Chinese were not on tours of Chinese media and tour connectivity from China,” says a huge setback for Nepal’s tourism. In fact, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal’s tourism map even few years operators were conducted to give a Pramod Nepal, under-secretary at the But industry watchers say that Nepal Wu Chuntai has projected in ago, the healthy growth in Chinese real impression about Nepal after the Tourism Ministry. different occasions that the number of arrival numbers backed by their earthquake.

safety concerns, Thamel wears a quake, now the number has fallen BY SHREEJANA SHRESTHA deserted look nowadays. to 10-15. Bhat, who has been running He, however, is thankful that ‘Naveed Arts and Crafts’ for his shop in Thamel survived Nasheer Ahmad Bhat, a the last five years, says that just the quake and the frequent shopkeeper in Thamel, a tourist 1-2 Chinese tourists come to his aftershocks. “Also I am happy that hub in Kathmandu, was busy shop in a week. The man from I have been able pay the rent and serving his customers this time Kashmir says Pashmina and to pay my staff, even during this last year. It would have been Kashmiri shawls were the major difficult time when the business is tremendously difficult for him attraction for Chinese tourists. slow,” he said snugly. to take out spare time as tourists The fall in number of Chinese Similar is the condition ‘flocked’ his handicraft shop. tourists has not only been a bane of major Chinese hotels, including However, things have changed for handicraft business, but has Shang Dong Hotel, which due to the catastrophic earthquake also adversely affected businesses opened its doors last year. of April 25—only a small number of hotels and restaurants, spas, Sweet Wang, the owner of the of tourists visit his shop these travel agencies and laundry Chinese hotel, said that of the 27 days. ‘This used to be the business services. rooms in her hotel, only 10 rooms season. But I have just 3-5 percent Owner of ‘Chicken N Falafel’ have been booked, as of August 2. business compared to the previous Narayan Kuwar recalls those “All 27 rooms were booked year,” complained Bhat. “Chinese happy days when he could for June and July last year. My tourists have been my largest sell food items of up to Rs. 50 major customers were Chinese customers for the last five years.” thousand in a day before the and Indians,” Sweet informed. Since the quake, tourism has quake. She also runs a Chinese restaurant incurred the biggest business “My average sales used to on the same building. loss (estimated at Rs 62 billion). be around Rs. 40,000-50,000 Entrepreneurs in Thamel The figure is even more than thousand in a day--90 percent of remark that the slump seen in A ddesperateesperate ThamelThamel that of the housing sector due to my customers were tourists. Now tourism is the worst in a decade. outflow of visiting foreign tourists my business is around Rs. 10,000 Figures from the Ministry and cancellation of visits by thousand a day,” shared Kuwar. of Culture, Tourism and Civil potential tourists, according to the Chinese tourists have been his Aviation show that Nepal received eeagerager fforor ChineseChinese touriststourists government’s Post Disaster Need major customers for the last two 123,805 Chinese tourists in 2014, Assessment (PDNA). years – the boom years. up 10 percent year-on-year. Thamel-based shops usually He informed that at least 100 There had been a double-digit depend on foreign tourists; Chinese tourists would come to growth in arrivals over the last with tourists not coming due to his shop in a week before the one decade.