Chinese language training for tourism entrepreneurs begins

KATHMANDU: The sixth edition of Chinese language training for the nation's tourism entrepreneurs began in Kathmandu on Tuesday. 

Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hit Bahadur Tamang, and Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song, jointly inaugurated the training organised by the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu in partnership with the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Nepal China Cultural and Educational Council (NCCEC). The training will proceed for six months. 

On the occasion, Minister Tamang stated that proficiency in the language would assist in attracting tourists from China. He emphasised the need to provide appealing packages to attract more tourists from neighbouring countries, particularly India and China. 

Ambassador Chen shared his observation that the Nepali people had learned the Chinese language relatively quickly and clearly. He asserted that the Chinese language is not only the cornerstone of ancient history but also the foundation of scientific development. 

Highlighting that a significant number of traders and investors are preparing to come to Nepal, he stated that human resources with knowledge of the Chinese language are their primary requirement. He further emphasised the importance of learning the language to enhance the relations between the two countries. 

Ambassador Chen also encouraged the Chinese people to learn the Nepali language and immerse themselves in Nepal's art and culture. 

Acting Chief Executive Officer of NTB, Hikmat Singh Ayer, stated that language is a powerful tool in tourism hospitality and expressed the belief that training in the world's second most spoken language would help promote Chinese tourism in Nepal. 

Similarly, NCCEC Chairperson Harish Chandra Shah mentioned that 200 individuals who had previously undergone Chinese language training are now active in various tourism businesses in the country. He shared that there is a demand to conduct Chinese language classes outside the capital.