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KATHMANDU, Oct. 14-- Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit to Nepal, which ended Sunday, has charted the course for the future of bilateral ties. During his tour, Xi met with Nepali President Bidhya Devi Bhandari and Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli, among other political figures, and witnessed the signing of 20 bilateral cooperation documents. The two sides agreed to elevate their ties to a strategic partnership of cooperation featuring ever-lasting friendship for development and prosperity, opening a new chapter of China-Nepal relations. TRADITIONAL FRIENDSHIP In welcoming Xi, many Nepali people told Xinhua that China has been supporting them in their country's social and economic development, and they hope their two countries grow closer. The Chinese president received a warm welcome in capital Kathmandu, where the national flags of China and Nepal, as well as portraits of Xi and Bhandari, were installed on almost every lamp post along the streets that Xi travelled. "Nepal and China have a traditional friendship, and we Nepali people here are looking forward to the further enhancing of relations after President Xi's trip," said Manzoor, who didn't give his full name. Manzoor is a scarf retailer with his shop at the Thamel shopping area, one of the most populous shopping spots here. Sunil Prajapati, mayor of Bhaktapur City in south-central Nepal, said Xi's visit is expected to put Nepal on the radar for many Chinese and draw more Chinese tourists here. That may inject new vitality into Nepal's economic development. | 
