Patan (Lalitpur): Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City Chiribabu Maharjan has stressed the importance of transnational exchanges of best practices in urban development to foster the growth of prosperous and environmentally friendly cities.

Speaking at the Nepal National Pavilion in Hangzhou, China, an exhibition organized to commemorate 70 years of Nepal-China diplomatic relations, Mayor Maharjan said that the sharing of knowledge, skills, and artistic heritage—especially in areas such as infrastructure and sustainable urban planning—can play a key role in shaping better cities.

He highlighted Lalitpur’s rich artistic, cultural, and architectural legacy, noting that Nepal’s cultural diversity and heritage hold immense potential for international recognition and tourism promotion. “Our historical and archaeological assets can be further explored and showcased globally,” the mayor said.

Reflecting on China’s rapid development, Mayor Maharjan expressed optimism that Nepal too could achieve prosperity through goodwill and cooperation. He invited Chinese citizens to visit Lalitpur, the land of Gautam Buddha and Araniko, to experience its unique cultural and artistic charm.

On the Chinese side, Hangzhou Vice-Mayor Chen Weiqiang remarked that Buddhism, art, and culture have long served as vital connectors between the two nations. He welcomed the Lalitpur delegation and emphasized the importance of the expo in enhancing social, cultural, and economic cooperation.

Nepal's Ambassador to China, Dr. Krishna Prasad Oli, also underscored the significance of the event in promoting Nepali art, culture, and products in the Chinese market.

The Lalitpur delegation, led by Mayor Maharjan, departed for China on Friday to participate in the Hangzhou expo.