A reception was held in Beijing on August 1 in the evening to mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nepal.

Addressing the reception, Chen Haosu, president of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), said China and Nepal have witnessed a stable development of bilateral ties since the two sides forged diplomatic ties 50 years ago.

"The two sides also witnessed a smooth development of friendly cooperation in such fields as politics, economy, trade, science and technology, and culture," said Chen.

Promoting the friendly cooperation between China and Nepal accords with the fundamental interests of the two peoples, and is also conducive to regional peace and stability, he said, expressing his belief that under the joint efforts of the two sides, the China-Nepal good-neighborly friendship will be further cemented.

Nepal's ambassador to China Narendra Raj Panday said the establishment of diplomatic relations with China in 1955 was an "important landmark" in Napal's foreign relations.

"In the past half a century, the two countries have established a firm and enduring basis of relationship," the ambassador said, noting that the two sides always enjoy a frequent exchange of high-level visits and profound friendship.

China has been a "valuable partner" in Nepal's development process, he noted.

The reception was jointly hosed by the CPAFFC, the China-Nepal Friendship Association and the Nepalese embassy in China. A photo exhibition was held simultaneously to mark the occasion.

Source: Xinhua