Role of tea highlighted in China-Nepal ties

KATHMANDU, May 16 (Xinhua) -- The role of tea as an important bond connecting Nepal and China was highlighted here on Tuesday as a tea cultural event drew many Nepalis and Chinese together.

The event entitled "Tea for Harmony: Yaji Cultural Salon" included a photo exhibition on tea history and culture in China, a display of clay teapots, demonstrations of tea ceremony and refreshments making as well as a tea-themed lecture.

Yaji in Chinese means "gathering all that is elegant," and Chinese people in ancient times, in particular the elites, enjoyed tea with music, calligraphy and other cultural activities.

Tea is deeply rooted in the Chinese culture, and it is in Nepali culture, said Sudan Kirati, Nepal's minister for culture, tourism and civil aviation.

"In China, tea is taken as a symbol of bridge between nature and mankind, and serving tea to welcome guests is a long-held tradition in Nepal," the minister said at the opening ceremony of the event.

"Such programs, I believe, help strengthen the people-to-people relationship between the two nations," he added. "Nepal can benefit a lot from China which is marching on the path of prosperity."

Tea originated in China and became popular around the world. In December 2019, the United Nations declared May 21 the International Tea Day, and "Traditional tea processing techniques and associated social practices in China" was added to the UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage list in November 2022.

Referring to the developments, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song stressed that the UNESCO's move once again proves the "unique charm and global influence" of the Chinese culture and reflects the important contribution of Chinese civilization to human cultural diversity.

"Tea is not only a vehicle for the Chinese belief in harmony between human and nature, but also an important bond connecting China and the rest of the world," Chen said at the opening ceremony.

In recent years, Nepal's tea has increased its presence in the Chinese market, and China has offered zero-tariff treatment on 98 percent of taxable products of Nepal, with tea included, noted the ambassador.

"We welcome Nepal to export more good-quality tea to China, and look forward to conducting more tea-related exchanges to deepen our friendship," Chen added.

"Tea for Harmony: Yaji Cultural Salon" is an event held worldwide around May 21.