9th China-South Asia Expo Begins in Kunming with Strong Nepali Presence

Kunming, China:  The 9th China-South Asia Exhibition officially opened in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, on June 19. The event, jointly organized by China’s Ministry of Commerce and the Yunnan Provincial Government, aims to enhance cooperation in trade, science and technology, energy, education, health, and culture.

Business representatives from over 60 countries, including those from South and Southeast Asia, are participating in the expo. Nepal has a notable presence, with around 120 businesspersons showcasing products such as handicrafts, Buddha idols, tea, and coffee across 17 dedicated pavilions.

The exhibition is being held under the theme “Solidarity and Coordination for Common Development.” During the inaugural session, senior Chinese officials, including CCP Standing Committee Member Wing Ming and Yunnan Governor Wang Yugo, emphasized regional cooperation as a key to peace and prosperity.

Nepali Ambassador to China, Krishna Prasad Oli, highlighted the potential of South and Southeast Asia, rich in natural and human resources, for development through collaboration in environmental conservation, infrastructure, and economic reform. He also noted Nepal’s global recognition through the Sagarmatha Sambaad and stressed that Nepal-China relations, rooted in history and trust, will be further deepened as both countries mark 70 years of diplomatic ties.

Janak Raj Pande, a pashmina entrepreneur from Thamel, Kathmandu, said that the number of Nepali stalls had increased by 40 compared to the previous year, although some exhibitors faced challenges due to transportation delays.

(RSS)