Nepali student appreciates development opportunities brought by BRI

(ECNS) -- Mary, a Nepali student in China with the Chinese name of Ma Li, said she is very appreciative of the development opportunities that the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has brought to her homeland.

"After Nepal became a BRI participant, many Chinese companies have built schools and roads in my country," she said.

Mary completed her undergraduate studies at East China Normal University and is pursuing a master's degree in Chinese international education at Hebei Normal University.

"I originally planned to study in Australia after high school. But with the launch of the BRI, I noticed that more and more Chinese businesses were investing in Nepal. I realized that studying in China could bring me more opportunities for future development, so I chose to come to China for my studies," she said.

In China, Mary saw skyscrapers, highways, and high-speed trains for the first time. "Living in China is very convenient. You don't need to carry cash when you go out, and mobile payments make buying things very convenient," she said.

Now, Mary has fallen in love with Chinese cuisine, with hotpot and spicy chicken being her favorites. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, especially stir-fried tomatoes with eggs.

In the girl's eyes, China has provided significant assistance to Nepal. When Nepal experienced an earthquake in 2015, China immediately sent rescue teams. It also assisted in the reconstruction of many ancient buildings that had collapsed due to the earthquake.

"If it weren't for the BRI, I would not have come to China, and wouldn't be who I am today," she added.

After graduation, she wants to return to Nepal to become a Chinese language teacher and help other students achieve their dreams.