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I feel singularly privileged to join you all and speak to this august gathering of intellectuals, aspiring scholars, and esteemed friends of Nepal.

I extend my profound gratitude to the President of the University for his generous invitation. While in my youth, I had read of the inspiring stature of the Peking University. The anti-imperialist and anti-feudal May Fourth Movement began at this University in 1919. That movement was an important turning point in the history of modern China. 

As I stand here at “Yan Yuan”, it is indeed a matter of pleasure to interact with the professionals and students who are at this temple of knowledge, and cradle of creativity. This atmosphere, which is full of academic energy and spark is truly inspiring. In our Sanskrit literature, there is an ancient aphorism: “Asatoma sadgamaya; tamaso ma jyotirgamaya”, which reflects our quest to move away from ignorance to truth, darkness to the light. In this context, what I am going to share with you today are the contemplations that I carry from my pursuit for that light. 

Nepal and China are the land of ancient wisdom. The teachings of great philosophers and sages have inspired generations, touching many lives across the world. Many great civilizations grew up in this part of the world—and greatness of those civilizations are unshakable foundations of our society. And those civilizations still resonate in our journey toward modernity. Our region has a richness of dedication and diligence. Our ancestors were able to build on those attributes and achieved progress while the rest of the world was still in the darker shadows and deeper slumber. 

And our forebears—they were not only the thinkers. They were innovators, and visionaries whose contribution is a legacy to Asia as well as the world. When I say these, it is not to say that all was well all the times in the history of the region. We had our share of turbulence and challenges. We saw the darker phases. We saw people being subject to deprivation and tyranny. Societies were unequal and fractured due to the stifling cages of discriminatory societal norms.  

But despite this, the ray of hope, the beam of wisdom and light for innovation was never extinguished in the region. The rise and resurgence of Asia today is based on this civilizational foundation. 

Today, the responsibility is ours to carry that torch, to build on the path laid down by our ancestors, and to expand the frontiers of human progress. And, in this direction, I admire the headway being made by China, her people and institutions like Peking University.

The world today talks of decay in democracy, or democracy in retreat. These trends implore us to ask broader questions—what exactly is democracy? When does democracy really deliver? Has democracy been able to rise beyond mere cosmetics? Does one size fits all in the name of democracy?

Often, the notion of democracy has been confined to binary boxes. Often, the process of democracy has been confined to a few cosmetic checklists. Often, the understanding of democracy has been truncated—with lopsided focus on single aspects of electing the representatives. 

Then how do we see a bigger picture? 

We must envision democracy as not merely a political framework but also a social system—one that upholds the dignity of every individual, inspires a sense of boundless potential, and fosters an environment of safety and security for all. 

While taking forward the ideas of democracy, debates emerged regarding its class character, leading to the distinction between what is often termed ‘Old’ and ‘New’ democracy. In ‘Old’ democracy, a privileged class—often referred to as the bourgeoisie—took the lead, while the toiling masses remained subordinate throughout the process of political transformation. 

In contrast, ‘New’ democracy saw the working class take the forefront, collaborating with oppressed and exploited groups from various strata of society. Historically, Nepali society and the economy bore strong feudal characteristics. For centuries, the country was ruled by a hereditary monarchy, often disconnected from the aspirations and needs of its people. During the 104 years of Rana oligarchy, while the rest of the world witnessed profound modernization, Nepal remained isolated. This period is often regarded as a ‘lost century’ in Nepal’s quest for democracy and development.

Nepal’s journey to political transformation stands as a unique model in global history. Unlike many movements worldwide, where political struggles were predominantly led by parties representing a single class, Nepal's political revolution was a collaborative effort, uniting representatives from competing classes.

The dawn of democracy began in Nepal in 1951 with the overthrow of the Rana autocracy after years of relentless struggle. But in 1961, monarchy recaptured absolute power and banned the political parties and imposed the partyless ‘Panchayat-system’. 

Yet, the resilience of the Nepali people prevailed, and the political movement of 1990 restored multiparty democracy, heralding a new era. Yet, that tryst with democracy proved to be fleeting. An armed conflict that erupted in 1996 inflicted immense human suffering and plunged the nation into further instability. The king, who ascended the throne following the mysterious royal massacre, once again seized absolute power, curtailing freedoms and undermining democratic progress. 

However, through our unwavering commitment to a home-grown peace process, this dark and tumultuous decade drew to a close in 2006 with ‘Comprehensive Peace Accord’.  In 2008, the monarchy was abolished, and in 2015, a highly progressive constitution was adopted, written by elected representatives. This historic document, rooted in the principles of social justice, has become a cornerstone of Nepal's democratic transformation.

Nepal’s political history is unique in the sense that both major political forces—left leaning and the right leaning—when they divide, monarchy usurps more power; yet, when united, they have consistently succeeded in subduing autocracy and advancing people’s freedom.

The post 1990s political landscape is shaped by these two distinct forces. In different junctures of Nepali history, different forces emerged as determining political actors: Rana versus king, king versus political parties, constitutional force versus violent force. Eventually, extremism perished when two parties—Nepali Congress and CPN -UML representing two trends together stabilized the political landscape.

At different milestones, these political parties demonstrated enough vision and maturity to forge alliances against autocracy. What I am sharing with you today is the story of our struggle for freedom, the story of transformation of our polity, the story of perseverance and resilience of Nepali people. 

Guided by the philosophy of Marxism, and under the visionary leadership of the People’s Leader Madan Bhandari, my party developed the principle of People's Multi-Party Democracy (PMD). 

PMD consists of synthesis of three key dimensions of the people’s struggles in Nepal: patriotism, social change, and democracy. 

The PMD, initially presented as the program of the Nepali revolution, sought the development of national capital and the transformation of the mode of production. It envisioned a constitution, written by the people themselves, as they are sovereign authority. 

This vision of comprehensive democracy embraces the political, economic, social and cultural aspects to empower the individual and society. At the economic sphere –mere rights to make choices won't suffice. Let’s be honest about this––for a vast number of people living in deprivation, the freedom to choose doesn’t mean much. Sustainable development and shared prosperity should empower people to expand their choices while ensuring social justice. 

In the socio-cultural sphere––tolerance and compassion are the key pillars. The first and last line of defence of democracy should be built in the minds of people––in their values, in their way of living.  

There is another equally important aspect of human life which implores us for the vision of comprehensive democracy. And that is the expanding frontier of technology. 

What if the unfolding of technological revolution ends up creating a large segment of people who become ‘irrelevant’ for the job market? Won’t such a marginalization of humans be a recipe for disaster?

Any scenario of that kind will not only be morally hollow but will also be socially disturbing and politically unfair. Democracy cannot thrive in the echo-chambers built by algorithms of new technology. 

My vision of ‘Comprehensive Democracy’ measures success not merely by economic growth but by the well-being of its people. And I see such a broader appreciation of democracy in President Xi’s vision of the “whole process people’s democracy”, which is rooted in China’s historical traditions, culture, and socio-economic development. 

The vision championed by the Communist Party of China, the way its party cadre are selected and promoted, are the pragmatic practice of democracy and meritocracy. CPC stands as a compelling testament to the idea that "one size does not fit all" in the name of democracy.

With our political issues mostly settled, we are wholeheartedly and single-mindedly focused on socio-economic transformation. We have instilled our vision in our constitution that envisions building a “socialism oriented” society. At this period of time, we are striving to lay robust foundations for a model of socialism uniquely tailored to our needs and aspirations.

We have encapsulated socialism with Nepali characteristics in our national aspiration––"Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali!’ This aspiration is built on the pillars of economic equity and societal well-being.

For us, prosperity means economic growth with equity—ensuring a level playing field for all, equitable access to quality education and healthcare as fundamental rights and providing social safety nets and empowering marginalized communities. 

Achieving this requires––robust democratic institutions that ensure political stability, good governance, and transparency, fostering a culture of trust and social harmony.

Cultivating a culture of democracy and participation at every level of society strengthens social cohesion and peace—prerequisites for collective happiness. 

This vision aspires to harmonize both material progress and the well-being of all. Nepal and China, the lands of Buddha and Confucius, share a rich history of harmonious coexistence and enduring friendship. As trusted neighbours and steadfast partners, our two nations collaborate closely in various areas of mutual interest.  

Nepal remains deeply committed to the ‘One China Principle’, a consensus upheld by all political parties in the country. We admire the visionary initiatives of President Xi such as the Belt and Road Initiative in the spirit of shared prosperity and win-win cooperation. China has lifted 800m of its people out of poverty and set an inspiring example of ‘prosperity with happiness’, where growth encompasses well-being and equity. 

China’s miraculous economic development offers valuable lessons for Nepal as it embarks on its own developmental journey. Together, Nepal and China can envision a future of shared prosperity and enduring friendship, inspired by mutual respect and the pursuit of a better world for all.

Excerpts from the speech delivered at Peking University 

The “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” is an important global campaign that runs annually from Nov 25 to Dec 10. This period serves as a critical time to raise awareness, advocate for change, and take action against gender-based violence (GBV), particularly violence against women and girls. The campaign aims to highlight the widespread nature of GBV and to encourage governments, organizations, and individuals to take concrete steps toward its eradication.

The “16 Days of Activism” campaign was launched in 1991 by the ‘Center for Women’s Global Leadership’ at Rutgers University, United States. It was created to catalyze a global movement to address violence against women, with specific dates chosen for their significance. Nov 25 marks the “International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women”, which commemorates the “Mirabal Sisters”, three Dominican women who were political activists and were murdered on 25 Nov 1960, by the secret police under the regime of Rafael Trujillo. Their assassination became a symbol of resistance against gender-based violence and state oppression. The campaign ends on Dec 10, which is ‘Human Rights Day’, commemorating the adoption of the “Universal Declaration of Human Rights” by the United Nations in 1948. This declaration affirms the right of every individual to live free from violence, discrimination, and abuse.

The legacy of the “Mirabal Sisters” plays a central role in the campaign. Patria, Minerva, and Maria Teresa were politically active women who opposed the authoritarian Trujillo regime, speaking out about the rights of women and against the brutal tactics of the government. Their tragic deaths became a rallying cry for women’s rights activists around the world, and their legacy continues to inspire the global fight against violence. The United Nations officially designated Nov 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women in 1999, using their martyrdom to draw attention to the urgent need to address gender-based violence.

As per various reports and studies, violence against women remains a global epidemic, affecting “one in three women” in their lifetime. This violence can take many forms such as physical, sexual, psychological, and economic and is often perpetrated by intimate partners. GBV is deeply entrenched in social, cultural, and institutional inequalities, and its impacts are far-reaching. Factors such as “poverty”, “armed conflict”, and “cultural norms” exacerbate women’s vulnerability to violence. Women in poverty are more likely to experience abuse and lack the resources to escape it, while those in conflict zones face heightened risks of sexual violence. Harmful patriarchal systems, gender norms, and societal expectations often normalize violence, perpetuating abuse across generations.

The “16 Days of Activism” aims to achieve several key objectives. “Raising awareness” is a primary goal of the campaign. Through social media campaigns, public protests, and educational workshops, the campaign amplifies the voices of survivors and advocates, helping to break the silence around GBV and bring the issue into the global spotlight. Another central objective is “advocating for institutional change”, specifically pushing for stronger laws and policies to protect women from violence. This includes advocating for the criminalization of all forms of GBV, ensuring that survivors have access to justice, and establishing support services to help women recover from violence. “Empowering women and girls” is also a major focus of the campaign. By providing resources, education, and support, the campaign works to help women and girls live safe, healthy, and fulfilling lives, while breaking the cycle of violence. Lastly, the campaign seeks to “build solidarity” among individuals, organizations, and nations, fostering a collective global movement to end GBV and ensure gender equality.

Over the years, the “16 Days of Activism” campaign has had a significant impact. It has led to “increased legal protections” in many countries, with reforms that criminalize domestic violence, sexual harassment, and human trafficking. These legal advancements have helped ensure that survivors have access to justice and vital support services. The campaign has also played a crucial role in “raising public awareness” about gender-based violence. Through mass media, social media, and grassroots campaigns, it has sparked public dialogue on the root causes of violence and the need for social change. The campaign has inspired “global solidarity movements”, with protests, marches, and social media mobilizations uniting people from diverse backgrounds in the fight against GBV.

Looking toward the future, while the campaign has made significant progress, much work remains to be done. The future of the “16 Days of Activism” depends on continued efforts to “change social norms” and “engage men and boys” as allies in the fight against GBV. Challenging traditional notions of masculinity, promoting respectful relationships, and addressing harmful gender norms are essential for creating lasting societal change. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on “prevention”—educating individuals about consent, healthy relationships, and the importance of gender equality. Supporting survivors remains a critical component of the campaign, ensuring that they have access to care, legal assistance, and economic resources to rebuild their lives.

In conclusion, the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” is a vital campaign that continues to raise awareness, advocate for systemic change, and build solidarity across the globe. Its impact has been profound, but the fight for gender equality and the elimination of violence is ongoing. The campaign serves as a reminder that this is not just a women’s issue, it is a human rights issue that requires the collective action of all people, regardless of gender, to ensure that women and girls everywhere can live free from violence, discrimination, and fear.

During my travels across 79 countries, I’ve encountered a myriad of flavors, from the buttery aroma of freshly baked croissants in Paris to the rich, hearty scent of bread in Turkey and Austria. Being an early riser by nature, I’ve often walked the streets of these places, enchanted by the art of baking.

Growing up in Pokhara, however, bread was a rare luxury—a delicacy my father would bring home only for special occasions. Birthdays were marked with fruit cake if my father was home. Otherwise, homemade laddus and simple sharbat sufficed for celebration. I vividly recall the joy of unwrapping a cupcake sprinkled with coconut—a luxury in those days, where even a sprinkle of peanuts could elevate the treat. Today, despite the abundant offerings of bakeries worldwide, it’s these simple, nostalgic flavors that hold the greatest charm for me, especially the timeless Krishna Pauroti of Nepal.

In Nepal, bread (pauroti) owes much of its legacy to the pioneering efforts of the Karnikar family, especially Krishna Bahadur Rajkarnikar. His journey as a baker began 76 years ago when he returned from India and established Nepal’s first bakery of its kind. Krishna Pauroti, the bakery he founded, became synonymous with bread in Nepal, and its legacy endures to this day.

Krishna Bahadur, the visionary behind Krishna Pauroti, honed his baking skills during his time in Calcutta, India. Inspired by the bustling tea stalls he encountered there, he envisioned introducing a similar culture to Nepal. In 1948, upon his return, he set up Krishna Pauroti in Kamal Pokhari, Kathmandu, along with a tea stall. This combination of freshly brewed tea and warm bread was revolutionary, marking the dawn of Nepal’s fast-food culture.

Bisheshwar Prasad Koirala, fondly known as Sanu Dai, was one of the regular patrons of Krishna Bahadur’s tea stall, further cementing the bakery’s reputation as a space where influential figures and ordinary folk alike could enjoy the humble pleasure of bread. Beyond introducing pauroti to Kathmandu, Krishna Bahadur mentored countless others, inspiring a wave of pauroti entrepreneurs across Nepal and beyond.

Krishna Pauroti was a cultural institution. Krishna Bahadur’s son, Ghanshyam Raj Karnikar, now 84, came to be known as Nepal’s ‘King of Pauroti.’ The Karnikar family’s ties to historical figures like Maharaj Bir Shamsher, through Krishna Bahadur’s friend Heera Man Singh, imbued Krishna Pauroti with a sense of heritage and tradition deeply rooted in Nepal’s history.

The Karnikars belong to the Halwai community, known for their mastery of sweets and delicacies. Their family name, Raj Karnikar, means ‘Royal Crafter,’ an apt title for a lineage that brought an artisanal touch to Nepali cuisine. Krishna Bahadur’s innovative techniques, learned during his time in India, helped Krishna Pauroti stand out as Nepal’s premier bakery.

For many years, Krishna Pauroti was the go-to bakery in Kathmandu, synonymous with quality and tradition. The bakery introduced bread varieties unfamiliar to Nepal, experimenting with ingredients like millet and buckwheat. By incorporating native grains, Krishna Pauroti fused local ingredients with traditional baking methods, offering familiar flavors in novel forms.

Even King Mahendra was a regular customer, and royal patronage helped solidify Krishna Pauroti’s status as a top-tier bakery. In 1972, Krishna Pauroti transitioned into a private limited company, ushering in a new chapter for the bakery.

Today, Krishna Pauroti is more than a bread bakery. It has expanded its offerings to include cakes, cookies, and other baked goods, adapting to the evolving demands of a changing Nepal. Despite its modern expansion, the bakery remains true to its roots, embodying the humble craftsmanship and dedication of its founder.

Operating from four locations in the Kathmandu Valley—Kamal Pokhari, Khumaltar, Hattiban, and Mahalaxmi—Krishna Pauroti continues to offer a taste of nostalgia alongside its innovative creations.

Krishna Bahadur not only founded a bakery but also inspired a generation of bakers and entrepreneurs. Many of those he trained went on to establish their own bakeries, spreading the legacy of Krishna Pauroti within Nepal and beyond. His influence significantly contributed to the growth of Nepal’s bakery scene, cultivating an appreciation for bread and pastries in a culture previously unfamiliar with such foods.

Whenever I visit Krishna Pauroti, ‘am reminded of the simplicity of my childhood treats in Pokhara and the joy of savoring a fruit cake or a coconut-sprinkled cupcake. It’s remarkable to see how far the bakery has come—from a single tea stall to a network of bakeries that remain at the heart of Nepal’s culinary landscape.

The evolution of Krishna Pauroti mirrors Nepal’s growth, transforming from a modest yet ambitious enterprise into a symbol of entrepreneurship and resilience. Through every loaf of bread and every pastry, Krishna Pauroti continues to tell the story of its founders and the flavors of a nation.

As the scent of freshly baked bread wafts through Kathmandu’s streets, Krishna Pauroti serves as a beautiful reminder of Nepal’s culinary journey—from its humble beginnings to its role in shaping modern Nepali food culture. It’s a story of dedication, realized dreams, and a family’s unwavering commitment to their craft.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has reaffirmed Nepal’s importance in China’s neighbourhood policy and expressed commitment to enhancing the strategic partnership during a meeting with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.

Prime Minister Oli is currently on a four-day official visit to China. Tuesday’s talks between the two leaders mainly focused on deepening the bilateral ties as well as strategic partnership between China and Nepal. The two countries elevated their comprehensive bilateral relation to the strategic partnership during Xi’s Nepal visit in 2019.  

During the meeting, Xi expressed appreciation for Oli’s firm commitment to promoting friendship between the two sides, emphasizing their shared geography and long-standing relations, according to China’s state news agency, Xinhua. “These efforts aim to help Nepal transform from a landlocked country to a land-linked country,” it added.

Noting that next year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nepal, Xi said China places Nepal at an important position in its neighborhood diplomacy, and is willing to work with Nepal to consolidate traditional friendship and push for new progress in advancing the strategic partnership of cooperation featuring ever-lasting friendship for development and prosperity. On the occasion, the Chinese leader also announced to provide 500m RMB for Nepal’s development. 

Prime Minister Oli, in response, reiterated Nepal’s commitment to implementing the projects under Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). He also expressed Nepal’s openness to welcome Chinese investments. He also emphasized Nepal’s commitment to One-China policy, assuring that Nepal would never allow its territory to be used for anti-China activities.    

Earlier, Oli held delegation-level talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. In the meeting Li said that China is willing to work with Nepal to implement the consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, continue to consolidate and deepen political trust, and push for the deeper development of relations. 

China firmly supports Nepal in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions, and stands ready to enhance the synergy of development strategies with Nepal, leverage the leading role of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation in bilateral cooperation, Li told Oli. He added that China encourages competent Chinese enterprises to invest in Nepal, and is willing to import more quality products from Nepal.

During Oli’s visit, nine agreements were signed between the two countries, covering a range of areas aimed at bolstering bilateral cooperation. These agreements included economic and technical cooperation, development of Tokha-Chhahare Tunnel, trade promotion, export of thermally processed buffalo meat products to China, and a development plan spanning 2024 to 2029. Additional agreements involved cash assistance, handover of the reconstructed nine-storey Basantapur Tower, volunteer Chinese language teachers, and collaboration between Nepal Television and China Media Group.  

While Oli’s China visit marks a significant progress in the bilateral and strategic ties between the two countries, uncertainties persist regarding the implementation of BRI. It is still unclear whether the two sides discussed the much-talked BRI implementation plan.  Just before Oli’s visit, Nepal had proposed a BRI framework agreement to China. 

Officials say the Chinese side rejected the Nepali proposal of accepting only grants under the BRI. According to sources, both sides, however, agreed to continue discussion on the issue after Oli’s visit.

Prime Minister Oli also met Zhao, chairman of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, on Tuesday. During the meeting, Oli said that Nepal and China have treated each other with respect and equality, engaged in mutually beneficial cooperation, and have set a good example of friendly coexistence between countries with different social systems and sizes.

Zhao said that China is willing to work with Nepal to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, expand high-level strategic cooperation, and advance the China-Nepal strategic partnership of cooperation featuring ever-lasting friendship for development and prosperity. He added that the NPC of China is willing to strengthen exchange at all levels with the Nepali Parliament, share legislative experience, and provide legal guarantees for pragmatic cooperation between the two countries.