Society

China Radio International launches Confucius Class in Nepali capital

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-06-30 17:30

KATHMANDU-- Owing to the increasing demand of Chinese speakers in Nepal, China Radio International (CRI) Nepali Service has begun Confucius Class to teach Chinese language here in the Nepali capital of Kathmandu.

Amid an official opening of the CRI Confucius Class on Wednesday, Director of Confucius Class Liu Hong Sheng said that to strengthen friendly bilateral relation between two neighboring countries the class has been initiated.

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"To widen the understanding in people-to-people level as well as for cultural exchange, this Confucius Class will be helpful," said Liu in his speech. He also informed that since December 6, 2007, CRI officially formed Confucius Class to inform people living in various countries with Chinese language, culture and latest developments in China.

On the occasion, local experts lauded CRI's contribution to educate people across the world with Chinese language and culture. They said that while Nepalis communicate in Chinese language, they also exchange Nepali culture with Chinese people and grasp Chinese culture.

Prakash Babu Poudel, President of Nepal-China Friendship Youth Association emphasized that as China is a booming economy in the world, learning Chinese will benefit Nepalese youths with additional opportunities. "It is profitable to learn Chinese, which is an important languages in the world that is growing as a largest economy," he said.

The opening ceremony was organized by CRI Confucius Class in association with National Council of CRI Listener's Club-Nepal. According to the CRI Confucius Class, they operate altogether four classes alternatively that have been specifically categorized tour guides and journalists. Altogether, 200 students are acquiring the Chinese class.