Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: The first trial seedling transplanting ceremony for the China–Nepal Southern Agricultural Science and Technology Park Hybrid Rice Demonstration Zone was held in Rampur, Chitwan, on Monday.
The event, organized by the China Foundation for Rural Development (CFRD) in cooperation with Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU), marked a new milestone in bilateral agricultural cooperation as the two countries celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, CFRD said in a statement.
During the ceremony, 37 high-yield hybrid rice varieties were transplanted.
Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song, Mayor of Bharatpur Metropolitan City Renu Dahal, AFU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Sharada Thapaliya, Agriculture Secretary Dr Deepak Kumar Kharal and CFRD Nepal Director Zou Zhiqiang, among others, were present on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Song said hybrid rice technology is a vital tool for global food security. He also expressed China’s commitment to helping Nepal achieve self-sufficiency through technology exchange.
The three-year demonstration aims to develop high-quality rice varieties suited to Nepal’s conditions, build a core team of local experts, and introduce advanced cultivation practices.
Similarly, Mayor Dahal thanked the Chinese government for its commitment to this transformative project, which is expected to become a symbol of impactful cooperation for Nepal and its farmers.
Also speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor Thapaliya said this cooperation is not just about testing seeds, but about strengthening Nepal’s food security, climate resilience and agricultural modernization. “The introduction of hybrid rice technology will improve food security, uplift the livelihood of farmers and further strengthen Nepal–China friendship,” she added.
CFRD Nepal Director Zhiqiang said they were committed to ensuring the complete success of the project.
The three-year project will focus on selecting rice varieties suited to Nepal’s climate, developing a skilled local team, and introducing advanced cultivation practices.
