Third Trans-Himalayan Forum on Communication and Social Development kicked off in Kathmandu.
The event was jointly organized by the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Kangba TV (China), Tribhuvan University, and Himalaya Television (Nepal).
Held under the theme “Peripheral Digital Communication and Regional Public Governance, the forum aims to address shared challenges through digital innovation and cross-border collaboration.
Amid complex and shifting global dynamics, strengthening trust and cooperation among Trans-Himalayan nations has become more critical.
Countries linked by shared geography and culture face common challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, water security, and sustainable development. The forum aims to leverage digital tools and academic dialogue to promote practical solutions and strengthen regional stability.
The event brought together over 150 scholars and practitioners from nine countries, including China, Nepal, the US, India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Japan, with more than 60 academic papers submitted.
The event’s timing, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of China–Nepal and the 75th anniversary of China–India diplomatic relations, stressed on its broader historical and regional relevance.
During the program, Professor Manukonda Rabindranath of Jawaharlal Nehru University (India) discussed AI-driven fact-checking tools, while Bhutan’s Dawa Penjor introduced the “Gelephu Mindfulness City” model. Professor Chen Changfeng of Tsinghua University examined how algorithms are reshaping societal cognition.
Women’s empowerment emerged as a key theme, with India’s Deepika Pant highlighting the resilience of Pahari women amid social and environmental transformations. Kangba TV host Qimi Wengmu emphasized the media’s vital role in amplifying women’s voices and promoting intercultural understanding.
Meanwhile, experts emphasized the need for deeper integration.
Professor Taibur Rahman (University of Dhaka) illustrated synergies among Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, and Nepal through case studies. Japanese photojournalist Hiroyuki Torii demonstrated visual storytelling’s power in bridging cultures, while Pakistan’s Professor Abida Ashraf advocated for enhanced media industry cooperation .
The Vice-Chancellor of Tribhuvan University emphasized the importance of evidence-based academic exchanges in the context of ongoing geopolitical shifts.
Professor Ding Huang, Dean of UESTC’s School of Public Administration, noted, “This forum serves as a digital bridge to share knowledge and tackle common challenges”.
Professor Han Hong, Director of the Center for Trans-Himalayan Communication Research, proposed a “Seven-Point Initiative” to consolidate consensus during the sessions.
