Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: China’s new ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song, arrived in Kathmandu on Sunday. Song is taking over the role after Hou Yanqi completed her four-year tenure on October 25 and returned to China.
Before taking on his new role as ambassador to Nepal, he worked as the Deputy Director General of the Asia Department at the Chinese foreign ministry, where he oversaw relations with Nepal, Afghanistan, and other South Asian nations.
The outgoing Chinese ambassador, Hou Yanqi, was active in Nepal during her tenure. She played an important role in organizing the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Nepal in 2019. Nepal and China signed important agreements during her tenure. The incoming ambassador has more to do to continue improving bilateral relations.
China appointed Song as ambassador to Nepal after the 20th Congress of the Communist Party of China. Upon arriving in Kathmandu, he wrote in a Twitter post: “It’s been a privilege and a great honor for me to serve as the 22nd Chinese ambassador in Nepal. Arriving in Kathmandu today, I was amazed by its magnificent beauty and unique culture, and impressed by people’s kindness and warmth.”
“I, together with my colleagues in the Embassy, stand ready to work with Nepali friends from all walks of life to unleash the full potential of China-Nepal cooperation, and elevate the bilateral relation to a new height,” he added.
Although formal diplomatic relations between Nepal and China began in 1955, the relationship between the two countries can be traced back to the time of Nepali craftsman Araniko. Song emphasized that the two countries have helped each other through difficult times, such as earthquakes and the COVID-19 pandemic, and will continue to advance their relationship based on equal treatment, friendly cooperation, and mutual benefit.
He added that President Xi’s visit to Nepal has further clarified the nature of the relationship between the two countries.
China has included Nepal in its list of countries for cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiatives (BRI). Song also noted that trans-Himalayan multi-faceted cooperation and communication networks are key areas for bilateral cooperation.
Expressing his happiness that the new government in Nepal is close to getting full shape, Song said, “China will always help to protect Nepal’s sovereignty and national self-respect”.
It’s been a privilege and a great honor for me to serve as the 22nd Chinese ambassador in Nepal. Arriving in Kathmandu today, I was amazed by its magnificent beauty and unique culture, and impressed by people’s kindness and warmth.（1/3） pic.twitter.com/CkDXsSSDPd
— Ambassador Chen Song (@PRCAmbNepal) January 8, 2023
