Kathmandu: The Second Phewa Dialogue has successfully concluded in Chengdu, China on March 27. This marked another significant milestone in fostering academic exchange and regional cooperation between China and South Asia.
Organized jointly by the China Center for South Studies (CCSAS) at Sichuan University, China and Tribhuvan University, Nepal, the two-day dialogue (March 26–27, 2026) brought together leading scholars, think tank representatives, and policy practitioners from across China, South Asia, and neighboring regions.
The Phewa Dialogue is a premier academic platform dedicated to facilitating in-depth exchanges on key strategic issues related to regional development. It aims to promote mutual understanding, build consensus, and strengthen cooperation among participating countries and institutions.
The 2026 Dialogue in Chengdu, continuing its founding vision, focused on the theme “South Asian Development under Climate Change and Governance. With increasing severe global climate challenges, participants engaged in interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral discussions on governance strategies for both adaptation and mitigation, recognizing their importance for the region’s sustainable development.
Through a series of high-level sessions, panel discussion, and expert exchanges, the Dialogue highlighted the need for stronger collaboration and more innovative approaches to effectively address climate-related risks while also unlocking new development opportunities. The discussions explored ways to advance regional economic integration in South Asia, promote green development through clean energy and emerging industrial chains, and support the transition toward more sustainable lifestyles.
Zhang Maoming, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Nepal, said, “The challenges of climate change call for collective response. I am pleased to note that China and Nepal have come a long way in jointly tackling climate change. China’s green transition is gaining momentum, bringing green development opportunities to South Asian countries including Nepal.”
The Vice President of Sichuan University, Professor Liu Chao, said, “Sichuan University has established long-term and stable cooperation with Tribhuvan University of Nepal, and has organized eleven short-term international student programs under the Belt and Road Initiative. More than 400 South Asian students, including over 100 Nepali students, have studied at Sichuan University. Sichuan University boasts distinctive disciplinary advantages in such fields as climate change, disaster management and reconstruction, carbon neutrality, and green energy.”
The Rector of Tribhuvan University, Professor Khadga KC, said, “I believe the discourses of the conference will foster inter-regional connectivity, which may bridge gaps among us and enhance Track Two level understanding among the South Asian countries with China.”
The second edition was built on the success of the inaugural Phewa Dialogue, held in December 2024 in Pokhara, Nepal, by the scenic Phewa Lake.
Building on its growing influence, the Phewa Dialogue will continue to serve as a vital platform for dialogue and cooperation, contributing to stronger regional partnerships and innovative solutions to global challenges.
