By Our Reporter

August 1 marks a significant milestone in the history of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China. Seventy years ago, on this very day in 1955, Nepal officially established diplomatic ties with the People’s Republic of China. However, the bond between the two nations extends far beyond the formal agreement—Nepal and China have shared centuries-old relations rooted in political, cultural, and economic exchanges.

To commemorate the 70th anniversary of these diplomatic ties, the Nepal-China Media Forum—a bilateral media organization dedicated to fostering people-to-people relations—has published a historical chronology titled "Seventy Years of Cordial Relations" (Samudhar Sambandhako Sattari Saal). The book, published in both Nepali and Chinese languages, presents a detailed account of the ancient connections between the two countries, the context of the diplomatic breakthrough in 1955, and key milestones in the relationship over the decades.

The publication highlights the friendship between King Mahendra of Nepal and Chairman Mao Zedong of China, and it documents the pivotal roles played by prominent leaders such as Kings Mahendra and Birendra, and Chinese leaders Mao Zedong, Deng Xiaoping, Jiang Zemin, Hu Jintao, and Xi Jinping in deepening bilateral relations. The contributions of these leaders have elevated Nepal-China ties to what is often described as “higher than Mt. Sagarmatha and deeper than the ocean.”

Drawing from various historical texts and expert commentaries from historians and diplomats specializing in Nepal-China relations, the book serves not only as a historical record but also as a valuable reference for students and scholars alike. A collection of rare historical photographs has enriched the publication.