The Nepali edition of Secrets of Zheng He's Voyages to the West Seas is launched during the South Asia International Book Fair 2023 (Nepal).

Chinese publishing giant Phoenix Publishing and Media Group showcased more than 100 kinds of books at the South Asia International Book Fair 2023 (Nepal), which was held in Katmandu, capital of Nepal, from Nov 21 to 25.

With a focus on exploring Asian culture and literary charm, the book fair set up three exhibition zones for China, Nepal, and other Asian countries.

The Nepali edition of Secrets of Zheng He's Voyages to the West Seas, one of the Chinese original "Wall Books" published by Phoenix Juvenile and Children's Publishing Ltd and Nepal's Current Publication Pvt. Ltd was released on Nov 23 during the book fair.

Take the Train to Lhasa, a Chinese original "Wall Book", is presented to a Nepali boy after the launch ceremony.

Zhang Mingzhou, former president of the International Board on Books for Young People, said he believes that publications like "Wall Books", with unique content and formats, are helpful in familiarizing children with the colorful world.

Speaking of the Secrets of Zheng He's Voyages to the West Seas, Zhang said that he expects the book will help children in more countries learn about Zheng He's voyages to the West Seas as well as inspire them.

Kiran Gautam, president of Current Publication Pvt. Ltd, spoke highly of the publications by Phoenix Juvenile and Children's Publishing Ltd, noting that he hopes Nepali children will like the books and seize the opportunity to learn about Chinese culture, history, and geography.

Kiran Gautam (in white), president of the Nepal Contemporary Publishing House, introduces Take the Train to Lhasa to Jhala Nath Khanal, former prime minister of Nepal, at the booth of PPMG during the South Asia International Book Fair 2023 (Nepal).

As early as 2019, the Current Publication Pvt. Ltd inked agreements with Phoenix Juvenile and Children's Publishing Ltd on the publication of the Nepali editions of "Wall Books", including General History of China, Take the Train to Lhasa, and General History of Chinese Costumes.

The publication of the Nepali edition of Secrets of Zheng He's Voyages to the West Seas is the result of Gautam's visit to Nanjing in 2023.

As both China and Nepal are home to major ancient civilizations, they have huge potential in cultural exchange and cooperation. PPMG will actively explore more avenues for copyright cooperation with Nepali counterparts.