China’s rural villages and three ‘Vibrant Villages’ in Nepal signed memoranda of understanding on Monday to strengthen agricultural cooperation and rural revitalisation.

The agreements link Qilong village of Sichuan Province with Gotikhel village of Lalitpur, Gaogang village with Kimtang village of Nuwakot, and Pingyang village with Khokana village of Lalitpur.

The signing took place during the China Foundation for Rural Development’s (CFRD) 10th anniversary celebrations in Nepal, which also coincided with the 70th year of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China.

Speaking at the event, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song praised CFRD’s contributions to rural development, education, and disaster relief over the past decade, noting that the celebration reflected the enduring friendship between China and Nepal during the historic 70th year of diplomatic relations. “China is committed to continuing collaboration in sustainable development initiatives, humanitarian assistance, and community-focused programmes in Nepal, emphasising the importance of mutual cooperation for long-term prosperity and shared development goals,” he said.

CFRD Executive Director Chen Hongtao said the anniversary was not only a time to look back at achievements but also to reaffirm commitment to future cooperation.

“This celebration is not only about looking back on our achievements, but also about reaffirming our shared commitment to building a more inclusive and resilient future for rural communities in Nepal,” he said. He added that CFRD would continue to integrate China’s poverty reduction experience with Nepal’s development needs to “foster sustainable growth and strengthen people-to-people ties between the two nations.”

Nanda Lal Majhi, vice-chairperson of the Social Welfare Council, highlighted CFRD’s long-term impact. “CFRD’s initiatives in education, agriculture, and community development have not only provided immediate support but have also built long-term capacities within communities,” he said. Praising the foundation’s collaborative approach, Majhi added, “CFRD has set a strong example of how international organisations can work hand in hand with local stakeholders to create sustainable and meaningful impact.”

Since 2015, CFRD has carried out projects across seven provinces of Nepal, directly benefiting over 842,000 people through initiatives in education, livelihoods, health, and rural development. Its successive plans, supported by the Chinese government, embassy, enterprises, and international partners, have ranged from post-earthquake reconstruction to post-pandemic recovery and the ongoing 2024–2027 education and community development programme.

As CFRD enters its second decade in Nepal, the organisation has pledged to align its efforts more closely with Nepal’s national priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, with a focus on education, livelihoods, health, and rural revitalisation.