Second Phewa Dialogue concludes in Chengdu, boosts China–South Asia cooperation

CHENGDU, CHINA: The Second Phewa Dialogue concluded in Chengdu last Friday, marking a renewed push for academic exchange and regional cooperation between China and South Asia.

Jointly organised by the China Center for South Asia Studies at Sichuan University and Tribhuvan University of Nepal, the two-day forum (March 26–27) drew leading scholars, think-tank representatives and policy practitioners from China, South Asia and neighbouring regions. Organisers said the Dialogue is a premier academic platform for in-depth exchanges on strategic issues affecting regional development.

This year’s edition centred on the theme 'South Asian Development under Climate Change and Governance.' Against a backdrop of intensifying global climate challenges, participants held interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral discussions on governance strategies for adaptation and mitigation, and on how to align climate action with sustainable development goals for the region.

High-level sessions, panel discussions and expert exchanges emphasised the need for stronger collaboration and innovative approaches to manage climate risks while seizing development opportunities. Delegates explored pathways to deepen regional economic integration in South Asia, promote green development through clean energy and emerging industrial chains, and support transitions towards more sustainable lifestyles.

On the occasion, Chinese ambassador to Nepal, Zhang Maoming, highlighted the shared responsibility for climate action. He said, “The challenges of climate change call for a collective response. I am pleased to note that China and Nepal have come a long way in jointly tackling climate change. China's green transition is gaining momentum, bringing green development opportunities to South Asian countries, including Nepal.”

Academic ties between the host institutions were underscored by Sichuan University Vice President Prof Liu Chao, who noted the university’s long-term cooperation with Tribhuvan University and its role in educating South Asian students. Prof Liu said, “Sichuan University has established long-term and stable cooperation with Tribhuvan University, and has organised 11 short-term international student programmes under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). More than 400 South Asian students, including over 100 Nepali students, have studied at Sichuan University. Sichuan University boasts distinctive disciplinary advantages in such fields as climate change, disaster management and reconstruction, carbon neutrality, and green energy.”

TU Rector Prof Khadga KC expressed hope that the Dialogue’s discussions would strengthen regional ties and informal diplomacy, stating, “I believe the discourses of the conference will foster inter-regional connectivity, which may bridge gaps among us and enhance Track Two level understanding among the South Asian countries with China.”

The Chengdu meeting builds on the inaugural Phewa Dialogue held in December 2024 in Pokhara, by the scenic Phewa Lake. Organisers said the Dialogue will continue to serve as a platform for cooperation and policy exchange, contributing to stronger regional partnerships and collaborative solutions to shared global challenges.