KATHMANDU: Nepal and China have signed an agreement to promote the development of indigenous communities, marking a new phase in bilateral cooperation. The agreement, signed in Kathmandu on Tuesday, brings together Nepal’s Indigenous Nationalities Commission and China’s National Ethnic Affairs Commission.

The deal was signed by Fan Yu, China’s Minister and Chairman of the National Ethnic Affairs Commission, and Ram Bahadur Thapa Magar, Chairman of Nepal’s Indigenous Nationalities Commission. Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song, was also present at the ceremony, held as part of events marking 70 years of Nepal-China diplomatic ties.

Under the agreement, both sides will collaborate on education, culture, arts, and youth development. A six-point framework outlines key areas of cooperation, including cultural preservation, ethnic exchanges, and international conferences on indigenous affairs. The agreement is expected to strengthen China-Nepal strategic ties and enhance mutual understanding between their ethnic communities.

Though not a legally binding treaty under international law, the agreement sets guidelines for cooperation. Either side may withdraw with three months’ written notice, and any disputes will be resolved through diplomatic channels.

The move underscores China’s growing engagement with Nepal in various sectors, while Nepal seeks to leverage international partnerships for the development of its indigenous communities.