Gap between rich and poor increasing: VP

Kathmandu, Jan. 30: Vice President Nanda Bahadur Pun Monday said on the face of it, the Nepalese economy seemed to be on track but  it was not satisfactory given that the gap between rich and poor had been ever increasing.

Addressing the 13^th conference of the South Asian Students of Economics organised by Nepal Economic Association (NEA) in the capital, he said, “Rich people have access to both the political and state powers. The situation is pathetic and can be improved through sustainable development, peace and economic prosperity.”

He called for the greater south Asian integrity with respect to each others’ sovereignty and independence.

“This region has the potential to be the economic centre of the world,” he said.

According to Pun, there were some national and regional challenges in the region that were hampering the development.

“If we charted out a common plan, it won’t take long to make the region prosperous. South Asian countries have multitudes of possibilities and resources,” he said.

Prof. Dr. Bishwambhar Pyakuryal, president of NEA, said that the conference would deliberate on various topics such as investment, regional integration, agriculture, trade, infrastructure, water resources and hydroelectricity.

“The conference will enhance fellowship and cooperation among the young economists in the region,” he said.