Minister Dr. Rana, Indonesian counterpart sign bilateral deals

Kathmandu, Sept. 23

On the sidelines of the 79^th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba and her Indonesian counterpart Retno L.P. Marsudi, signed two key agreements - the Bilateral Consultation Mechanism and the Visa Exemption Agreement for diplomatic and official/service passport holders.

The agreements aim to further strengthen bilateral ties, and enhance cooperation between the two countries, informed the Secretariat of FM Dr. Deuba in a statement on Monday.

The meeting between Dr. Deuba and Marsudi discussed a range of issues, including mutual bilateral interests between the two countries, as well as the expansion of future relations, development partnership, and cooperation to reduce the impact of climate change. Likewise, the leaders also discussed the mutual cooperation and investment between the two countries in tourism promotion. Foreign Minister Dr. Rana expressed the hope that the newly signed agreements would play an important role in further expanding the mutual relations between the two countries.

She held bilateral meetings with foreign ministers from various countries, including from Indonesia, Burundi and Finland, in New York on Sunday during her participation on the sidelines of the UNGA.

Minister Dr. Rana had a talk with her Burundian counterpart Albert Shingiro. The two ministers discussed issues, including mutual relations and bilateral interests as well as potential future cooperation between the two countries, read the statement.

"The discussions between the two ministers also touched on identifying ways for cooperation to tackle the impacts of climate change, which the two landlocked countries are struggling with," it said.

Likewise, Dr. Rana held talks with Finland's Minister of Foreign Trade and Development, Ville Tavio where the two leaders acknowledged over 50 years of strong and friendly relations and cooperation between Nepal and Finland. On the occasion, FM Dr. Rana appreciated Finland's continued support in Nepal's economic and social sectors. They also discussed mutual interests, future cooperation and potential partnership areas.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 September 2024.

PM holds talks with Modi in New York

 Kathmandu, Sept. 23

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, has held a meeting with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi on Sunday evening on the sidelines of the 79^th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) ongoing in New York, USA.

It was a delegation-level meeting where foreign ministers and other officials of both countries were present, informed PM Oli's secretariat.

Likewise, a meeting was held today between PM Oli and his Bhutanese counterpart Daso Chiring Togbe at the office of the Permanent Mission of Nepal to the UN in New York. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, also met with Prime Minister Oli at the same venue.

In another meeting, PM Oli discussed bilateral issues with his Kuwaiti counterpart Sheikh Sabah Al Khaled Al Hamad Al Mubarak Al Sabah at the office of the Permanent Mission of Kuwait to the UN, New York.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 September 2024.

Dhakal urges for FDI in tourism infrastructure

 Kathmandu, Sept. 23

President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Chandra Prasad Dhakal, has highlighted the need for increased investment in tourism infrastructure, promoting Nepal as a major tourist destination.

Speaking at the 37^th Asian Trade Promotion Forum held in Bangkok on Monday, Dhakal informed foreign investors about the potential opportunities in sectors like hotels, theme parks and adventure tourism destinations. Highlighting the growing demand for resorts in Nepal, he mentioned opportunities for partnerships in this sector, the FNCCI informed in a statement.

He also emphasised the investment opportunities in Nepal's information and communication technology and film industries. He informed that there has been a significant growth in sectors like handicrafts, music, films and digital art, which has not only contributed to economic development but also helped preserve Nepal's rich cultural heritage.

Discussing the opportunities in Nepal's information and communication technology industry, Dhakal mentioned that the country's young and energetic population has been contributing immensely to this sector, according to the statement. However, he pointed out the need for financial access, capacity building and market access for small and medium enterprises to fully utilise the potential of this sector.

Dhakal also highlighted the strategic advantages Nepal offers to foreign investors. He informed that Nepal has recently amended eight investment-related laws and endorsed a bilateral investment treaty framework to facilitate foreign investment.

Dhakal further discussed the growing potential of Nepal's hydropower sector. He mentioned India's commitment to purchase 10,000 megawatts of electricity from Nepal in the next 10 years and the new opportunities emerging in Bangladesh.                                             

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 September 2024.

Sun Life launches Medicare and Bal Samriddha plans

 Kathmandu, Nov. 23

On the occasion of its 7^th anniversary, Sun Nepal Life Insurance Company Limited has released two insurance plans - Sunlife Medicare and Bal Samriddha Jeevan Bima Yojana on Sunday.

In Sunaulo Bal Samriddha Jeevan Bima Yojana, payment is fixed on the death of the proposer of the insurance plan. If the proposer dies within the insurance period, the sum assured will be paid and the insured will be provided with a monthly income benefit of up to 2 per cent of the sum assured until the insurance period. The insurance company will cover up to Rs. 5 million for the treatment of fatal disease of the proposer.

Likewise, 'Sunlife Medicare' is an insurance scheme introduced to facilitate medical treatment in emergency situations. "We would like to inform you that this type of insurance plan has been launched for the first time in Nepal. We would like to inform you that it is expected that ordinary Nepali citizens can benefit from this plan, which provides up to Rs. 100,000 for medical treatment done in hospital," the company said in a statement.

With the entry into the eighth year of its operation, the company has conducted the audit of the information related to ISO 27001:2008 related to information security management and has committed to implement the system to level the company in the future.

On the occasion of the seventh anniversary, the company has completed week-long programmes under the slogan 'seven years, seven province, seven day, seven good deeds'. A morning procession, tree planting, food and clothing distribution, monastery-temple cleaning, blood donation, financial literacy workshops and distribution of educational materials have been done under seven good deeds.

On this occasion, the company planted seven types of plants including banyan, peepal, Rudraksha, red sandalwood, Agarwood, sandalwood and Swami at various places across the country.

Likewise, educational materials and food were distributed to women and children. A temple cleaning and blood donation programme has been organised under the slogan 'Taking steps together with the community'. A workshop on financial literacy has been conducted among students of various schools, on the occasion, informed the company.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 September 2024.

Royal Tulip comes to Nepal

Kathmandu, Sept. 23

Royal Tulip, the luxury brand of Louvre Hotels Group, is making its debut in Nepal with the signing of its first resort in Budhanilkantha of Kathmandu district.

"The project, developed by Classic View Resort Limited and managed by Sarovar Hotels in South Asia, signifies a significant step in elevating Nepal’s presence in the global luxury travel market," said the company in a statement on Monday.

The official signing ceremony for the Rs. 1.8 billion Royal Tulip by Sarovar Hotels and Resorts will take place on Tuesday in New Delhi.

The resort, located in the foothills of Budhanilkantha, will provide a peaceful retreat just a 30-minute drive from Tribhuvan International Airport, read the statement.

Spanning over 26 ropanis of land, the resort will feature 75 spacious and meticulously designed rooms, combining comfort with the beauty of Nepal’s natural landscapes.

"Guests will enjoy access to a grand 500-seat banquet hall, a world-class spa, steam rooms, private Jacuzzis, and an array of wellness amenities. The property offers uninterrupted views of the majestic Himalayas, making it a tranquil escape for both domestic and international visitors," read the statement.

Ajay Bakaya, Managing Director of Sarovar Hotels, who attended the signing ceremony, said, “Nepal is becoming an increasingly popular destination for both Indian and international travelers, and we are thrilled to expand into this vibrant market. With its stunning natural beauty and strong cultural heritage, Nepal offers a unique backdrop for our guests, and we are confident that Royal Tulip will deliver a truly luxurious and unforgettable experience here.”

Likewise, according to Aashish Dhakal, Director and Co-Founder of Global Equity Fund Limited, the resort is expected to significantly contribute to Nepal’s growing tourism sector, attracting both leisure and business travelers. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 September 2024.

UNDP launches $2.68 million urban preparedness project

Kathmandu, Sept. 23

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Nepal, together with the Government of Nepal, UNICEF and UN Women, launched a new 2-year, US$ 2.68 million (Euro 2.56 million) 'Super II: Strengthening Urban Preparedness and Earthquake Response in Western Region of Nepal' project, funded by the European Union (EU).

The UNDP-coordinated project will build the resilience of over 500,000 people - including those from the marginalised communities, on earthquake preparedness and urban risks in Lumbini, Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces of Nepal, as well as the three targeted municipalities, Nepalgunj Sub-Metropolis, Dhangadhi Sub-Metropolis, and Birendranagar Municipality.

“It is a priority for the European Union to continue being a part of the disaster preparedness and response activities in the western region of Nepal alongside UNDP, UNICEF and UNWOMEN,” said Veronique Lorenzo, EU Ambassador to Nepal.

“These activities will bring together communities and the authorities and help strengthen their capacity to prepare for and respond to disasters,” she said.

Building on the past urban preparedness and earthquake response work implemented under the EU-supported SUPER-I (2021-24) initiative and drawing lessons from the earthquakes in Jajarkot and Bajhang districts, Super-II aims to strengthen provincial and municipal systems and reinforce their linkages with the federal disaster risk reduction and management system, thus contributing to a reduced risk at the community level, the UNDP informed in a statement.

“As we go forward, and in the true spirit of leaving no one behind, we are committed to include the most at-risk and marginalized populations at the centre of urban/disaster preparedness interventions,” said Kyoko Yokosuka, the UNDP Resident Representative in Nepal.

In close coordination with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, provincial government and municipalities, the UNDP-led consortium project will engage parliamentarians, various associations of municipalities, government training institutions, NGOs/CBOs, media and the private sector, read the statement.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 September 2024.

Minister Adhikari pledges to represent Dalit community in land commission

Kathmandu, Sept. 23

 Minister of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation of Nepal, Balaram Adhikari, said that a new Land Commission will be formed by including the Dalit community.  

After accepting the 4-point attention letter submitted by Nepal Utpidit Dalit Jatiya Mukti Samaj (an association of oppressed caste groups affiliated to the CPN-UML), he promised to take initiatives for the rights and interests of the oppressed Dalit community. According to Minister Adhikari, the representation of Dalits has been legally ensured as it has been mentioned in the formation order for the land commission formation that there will be one representative of the Dalit community in the Central Land Commission.

Jitu Gautam, Politburo Member of CPN-UML and in-charge of Mukti Samaj, urged the Minister to provide land to the landless Dalit community, farmers and landless squatters.

The Mukti Samaj has demanded the representation of Dalit community in the new land commission even at the district level.

It has demanded to design and implement programmes to engage them in businesses based on the traditional occupations of the Dalit community, make them commercial and arrange for long-term livelihood programmes. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 September 2024.

PM Oli, UN chief Guterres meet in New York, discuss climate change

 Kathmandu, Sept. 22

Prime Minister Mr. KP Sharma Oli held a meeting with the Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres at the UN headquarters in New York on Saturday evening.

According to the Permanent Mission of Nepal to the United Nations in New York, on the occasion, Guterres said that the agenda of climate change is the priority of the UN including drastic reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and addressing vulnerabilities of mountain countries like Nepal. He stressed that climate finance should be adequate for the developing countries including the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to focus both on mitigation and adaptation.

The Secretary-General also stressed deeper reforms of the international financial architecture for enhanced financial support to developing countries as well as for simplified access to development finance.

Likewise, Prime Minister Oli recalled the Secretary-General’s recent visit to Nepal including his address to the Parliament, and expressed his happiness to inform that Nepal has enforced the act on transitional justice based on a victim-centric approach, guidance from the Supreme Court and the international norms.

He assured the smooth implementation of the act to resolve the issues of transitional justice once and for all, informed the Mission.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Oli also highlighted the devastating impacts of climate change in Nepal including the latest permafrost in Thame.

 He thanked the Secretary-General for raising the issue of climate change impacts in Nepal and advocating for support to tackle them. The Prime Minister informed Guterres  that Nepal is convening Sagarmatha Sambad (Sagarmatha Dialogue) with a view to championing the agenda of the mountain ecosystem and extended his cordial invitation to the Secretary-General to visit Nepal again to address this dialogue platform.

According to the Mission, PM Oli stated that Nepal is now focused on economic transformation based on the vision of 'Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali'. He expressed that Nepal is committed to graduating from the LDC category by 2026 and to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). He called the Secretary-General to urge the development partners and international community to enhance the development assistance to Nepal to this end. 

Likewise, as the largest Troops and Police Contributing Countries (TPCC) in the UN peace missions, PM Oli said that Nepal is committed to contributing to the maintenance of international peace and security, he underlined. He urged the Secretary-General to provide high-level posts for Nepal both in the headquarters and in the field.  

Recalling his visit to Nepal, Secretary-General Guterres expressed his deep concern over the accelerated melting of glaciers and the damage caused by it. He assured of his every effort to enhance the resources in the Loss and Damage Fund. 

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Oli also addressed the 'Parliamentary Forum on Financing the Future: Aligning Finance with the Promise of the Paris Agreement' organised by the Parliamentarians for a Fossil Free Future and Rainforest Action Network as the keynote speaker.

In his address, he stressed the importance of phasing out fossil fuels to prevent catastrophic climatic disasters that are becoming more frequent and severe than ever. Underscoring the adverse effects of global warming in the countries in special situations including the LDCs, PM Oli urged for increased investment in green and renewable energy technologies, just transition to renewable energy and vulnerable countries’ better access to climate funds. 

Likewise, United Nations High Representative for Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States and Under Secretary General, Rabab Fatima, paid a courtesy call to Prime Minister Oli where the two exchanged views on the Nepal-UN partnership, the graduation of Nepal from the LDC category and the upcoming Third International Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3) among others, informed the Mission. 

Similarly, speaking at a side event 'LDCs in the International Development Financing: What Changes can be expected from the Fourth United Nations Conference on Financing for Development', Foreign Secretary Sewa Lamsal emphasised that vulnerability assessment and capacity building of the least developed countries must be prioritised in concessional financial allocation to these countries to enable them to better access and utilize the concessional resources.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 23 September 2024.

FM Dr. Deuba reaches New York

 Kathmandu, Sept. 22

Concluding her 4-day visit to Canada, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Nepal Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba departed from Toronto Canada on Saturday evening to New York, the United States of America, according to the Embassy of Nepal in Ottawa.

She is scheduled to participate in the 76^th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. She will stay there till September 30.

FM Dr. Deuba is scheduled to address the Summit of Future and a programme at the Harvard Club New York on Sunday. On Tuesday, September 24, she will attend the opening of the general debate and other programmes at the UNGA, the MoFA informed.

FM Dr. Deuba is also scheduled to participate in the Socialist International Presidium meeting, Ministerial Meeting of the UN Group of Friends of Mediation and the LDC Ministerial meeting as well.

The Foreign Minister was leading the Nepali delegation to the Women Foreign Ministers Meeting hosted by Canada on 19-20 September. 

Speaking at the meeting, FM Dr. Deuba suggested building a strong coalition at local, national and global levels to ensure women's dignified position in the world. The Embassy also informed that she presented the success of Nepal in enhancing political participation and inclusion of Nepali women after the promulgation of the new constitution in 2015 when the country was also ushered into a federal governance system.

Likewise, she stated that the developed countries and their leaders could play an important role in securing technological and financial support to developing countries to bridge the 'digital divide' and promote social betterment.

On the sidelines of the meeting, FM Dr. Deuba held a bilateral meeting with her Romanian counterpart Luminita-Teodora Odobescu.  She also met with the Nepali entrepreneurs based in the city and discussed the possibility of promoting the export of Nepali agricultural products to Canada, and matters related to the Nepali diaspora there. FM Dr. Deuba also held a meeting with the representatives of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) and other community leaders.

Ambassador of Nepal to Canada Bharat Raj Paudyal, officials of the Embassy, and senior officials from the Government of Canada bade farewell to FM Dr. Deuba and her delegation at the Toronto Pearson International Airport.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 23 September 2024.

Minister Dr. Rana stresses on whole-of approach to attain gender equity

Kathmandu, Sept. 21

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, participated in the Women Foreign Ministers’ Meeting organised in Toronto, Canada on Thursday and Friday, 19-20 September.

The Embassy of Nepal in Canada informed in a statement that the meeting was hosted by Mélanie Joly P.C., Foreign Minister of Canada and Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of Jamaica. The meeting was held in two sessions: Women in Public Spaces: Politics, Leadership and Governance; and Women Leaders in the Age of Disinformation.

Speaking at the first session of the conference, Foreign Minister Dr. Deuba stressed the need for the ‘whole-of’ approach to attain gender equality, to protect and uphold a girl from her womb to her tomb with the support of untiring leadership and fearless efforts.

She also highlighted the statistical evidence from around the world demonstrating persistent challenges faced by women to reach leadership positions and attain general and sustained empowerment, read the statement.

She also said that there is a need to build a strong coalition at local, national as well as global level and move forward to ensure women’s dignified position in the world. 

FM Dr. Deuba underlined the achievements made by Nepali women since the promulgation of the Constitution of Nepal in 2015. She highlighted the success of Nepali women to reach to the top positions as the head of state, chief justice and the speaker of the parliament in a matter of few years.

According to her, the participation of women in public life, such as civil service, security forces and public sector employment opportunities has also increased significantly.

Likewise, during the second session, Foreign Minister Dr. Deuba emphasised the importance of digital technology and tools for women leaders to directly reach out to their constituencies, to raise awareness and spread positive message towards women leadership.

According to the Embassy, she also talked about the flip side of the digital technology widely used to spread hate, targeted harassment and disinformation to discourage women from rising in public offices and business.

She said that the leadership in developed countries could play an important role in securing technological and financial support to developing countries to bridge the divide, as well as to rein in the negative by-products of digital technologies for the betterment of society.

The Women Foreign Ministers’ Meeting concluded with reaffirming commitment to break down barriers and empower the next generation of women leaders. The statement pledges to advance women’s participation in leadership and decision-making and support safe and inclusive spaces for women in politics and public life. The meeting also pledges to intentionally encourage young women across the world to enter politics and public life.

On the sidelines of the meeting, Foreign Minister Dr. Deuba had a bilateral meeting with her Romanian counterpart Luminița-Teodora Odobescu. The two Foreign Ministers discussed the ways to expedite establishing diplomatic representation in each other’s country and promoting welfare and interests of Nepali migrant workers in Romania.

Later on Friday, FM Dr. Deuba received a delegation of Nepali entrepreneurs based in Toronto and discussed the issues related to promoting the export of Nepali agricultural and cottage industry produces to Canada as well as other matters of interest to the Nepali diaspora community and students.

Separately, the Foreign Minister also received insights from the community leader and NRNA representatives on the challenges of Nepali young students who jump immediately after completion of higher secondary education in Nepal to study abroad without adequate preparation and sufficient understanding of the courses, prospects and employability.

FM Dr. Deuba left Canada for New York on Saturday evening.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 22 September 2024.

PM in New York

Kathmandu, Sept. 21

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, leading the Nepali delegation, has reached New York, United States of America on Saturday (Nepali date) to participate in the 79th General Assembly of the United Nations.

Prime Minister Oli arrived in New York at 9.45 pm local time on Friday via Doha, Qatar, PM's Secretariate informed in a statement.

PM Oli was welcomed at John F Kennedy International Airport in New York by Lok Bahadur Thapa, Representative at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations, Kumar Raj Kharel, Acting Ambassador of Nepali Embassy in Washington DC, Chakra Subedi, Consul General of Nepali Consulate General in New York and other officials.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 22 September 2024.

Heifer International marks 80th year passing gifts to farmers

Sindhulimadi, Sept. 21

Heifer International marked the 80th year of its establishment with special programmes including gift passing in Sindhulimadi on Saturday.

Agricultural ministers in Nepal joined senior officials of Heifer International for the 'passing on the gift' ceremony organised to celebrate eight decades of helping smallholder farmers end hunger and poverty in their communities.

Heifer has partnered with the Nepali Government in the Milky Way Programme, which aims to fully transform and modernize the country’s dairy industry while benefiting smallholder farmers.

The programme will significantly improve dairy productivity through the breeding of high-grade milking cows, said Heifer Nepal.

The project was initiated with the donation of 100 premier Holstein heifers and eight Holstein bulls by the Government of Korea, which is also a partner in the programme.

In Kamalamai Municipality of Sindhuli, the Milky Way partners have established a Model Dairy Village and provided Holstein heifers to 51 local farming families.

At the ceremony held on Saturday, many of these farmers 'passed on' firstborn Holstein calves to other farmers to spread the benefits of the donation. Over time, the Milky Way Programme is expected to reach and improve the livelihoods of half a million Nepali smallholder farming households.

“The Milky Way Programme is a shining example of international cooperation and its potential to bring about meaningful change,” said Prakash Shrestha, Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development of Bagmati Province. 

Likewise, Heifer International CEO Surita Sandosham said, “As we celebrate 80 years of Heifer International, we are reminded of the power of community and the profound impact of passing on the gift.”

The Mayor of Kamalamai Municipality, Upendra Pokharel, said that with the arrival of Korean cows, monthly milk production here has doubled from 27,000 litres last year to 55,000 litres this year.

Founded on July 14, 1944, by Dan West, Heifer International began with a shipment of 17 cattle from Alabama to Puerto Rico to help improve the lives of impoverished communities there. The shipment in December 2022 and January 2023 of the Korean Holsteins to Nepal was a continuation of this Heifer legacy.

The passing on the gift ceremony is intended to foster a spirit of community, solidarity and shared purpose among the farmers, fulfilling their responsibility as programme participants to help others also improve their livelihoods, said Nina Joshi, Vice President of Asia Programmes of Heifer International.

Rukmini Adhikari, a member of Gaiya Devi Women Entrepreneurs Group who passed a calf as gift, said that the keeping of advanced breed of cow has economically empowered her family and community.

Kusun Thapa, a recipient of a calf, said that she would raise the calf as her daughter.

Dr. Tirtha Raj Regmi, National Director of Heifer Nepal, said that Heifer supported in production and marketing of various products through the cooperative groups.

"We would like to work with the government in running youth self-employment and promoting technological innovation," he said.

To date, Heifer Nepal has supported over 400,000 families, organized into 277 agricultural cooperatives — all working under the Social Entrepreneur Women Alliance, an apex governing body led by progressive women farmers.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 22 September 2024.

Nepal, Canada Foreign Ministers' Meeting

Bilateral trade, investment, people-to-people contracts stressed

 

Kathmandu, Sept. 19

Minister for Foreign Affairs of Nepal, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, held an official bilateral meeting on Wednesday with her Canadian counterpart, Mélanie Joly, at the latter’s office in Global Affairs Canada in Ottawa.

During the meeting, the two Foreign Ministers reviewed the state of friendly bilateral relations between Nepal and Canada, and talked about further promoting Nepal-Canada relations in various areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment, development cooperation, and promoting people-to-people contacts, Embassy of Nepal in Ottawa informed in a statement.

Both the ministers expressed satisfaction over the cooperative relations that Nepal and Canada are enjoying ever since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1965 and stressed on the need to maintain high-level communication and exchanges and explore further areas of mutually beneficial economic partnership between the two countries.

"The two Foreign Ministers took note the milestone 60^th year of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Canada next year and expressed commitment to further elevate the friendly relations by promoting cooperation in the field of education and tourism," read the statement.

According to the Embassy, the two foreign ministers also underlined the importance of cooperation in international forums in the agendas of shared interest, such as, promoting multilateralism, addressing climate change and implementing the sustainable development goals.

FM Dr. Deuba appreciated Minister Joly for taking initiative of convening Women Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Canada which she believed would be an important platform of deliberations on key contemporary issues impacting women and promoting their participation and empowerment in shaping of the agendas. Dr. Deuba is in Canada leading the Nepali delegation to the Women Foreign Ministers' Meeting at the invitation of her Canadian counterpart Joly. The meeting that began on Wednesday will conclude on Friday.

On the occasion, FM Dr. Deuba invited Foreign Minister of Canada Joly for an official visit to Nepal coinciding with the 60^th year of diplomatic relations next year.

She was accompanied in the meeting by Ambassador of Nepal to Canada, Bharat Raj Paudyal, and other officials from the Embassy while FM Joly's delegation included senior officials of the Global Affairs Canada.

Meanwhile, speaking at a programme organised by the Embassy on the occasion of the Constitution Day and National Day of Nepal, FM Dr. Deuba said that the empowering effect of the constitution can now be seen in greater participation and representation of women and other sections of Nepali society in the public life. She highlighted the 33 per cent of the seats in the federal parliament and provincial assemblies and almost 41 per cent of the seats in the local levels are represented by women, as the Embassy informed. .

She also highlighted the background of Canada-Nepal cooperation and invited to utilize the foundation already built for greater engagements to promote investment in Nepali hydro-energy sector between the two governments and business sector.

Speaking on the occasion, Parliamentary Secretary of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, Robert Oliphant complimented Nepal for the progress made in democratic transition, peace, and women’s empowerment and expressed his confidence that the two countries would continue to work together for enhancing cooperation in mutually beneficial areas of trade, tourism, and investment.

Likewise, Ambassador Paudyal talked about the cordial and friendly state of Nepal-Canada bilateral relations and expressed the hope that it would continue to grow and prosper in the future as the two countries prepare to celebrate the 60^th year of diplomatic relations next year. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 20 September 2024.

Nepal, China ethnic commissions to boost exchanges

 Kathmandu, Sept. 19

Chairman of Indigenous Nationalities Commission of Nepal (INCN), Ram Bahadur Thapa Magar held a bilateral meeting with Minister of the National Ethnic Affairs Commission (NEAC) of China, Pan Yue on Thursday.

Magar reached Beijing on Wednesday on an official visit at the invitation of Pan.

During the meeting, both the leaders appreciated deep and traditional socio-cultural and people-to-people relations between Nepal and China.

Magar highlighted the common similarities between the ethnic communities of Nepal and China, informed the Embassy of Nepal in Beijing, China.

"He shed light on the objectives, visions and functions of the INCN and underscored the need of frequent exchanges between the commissions, universities and students for the preservation and promotion of indigenous communities and their intangible heritage," he said.

In response, Pan agreed to enhance the exchanges and collaborations between two commissions stating that it will further strengthen the people-to-people connectivity between Nepal and China.

The delegation led by Magar comprises of INCN members Reena Rana, Sharan Rai and Surya Bahadur Gurung, Charge d'affaires of the Embassy, Surendra Kumar Yadav, and officials of the embassy. The Chinese delegation included Director General of the Department of Culture and Publicity, Zhang Mou, Director General of the International Department Wei Guoxion, and Vice-President of Minzu University of China, Jiang Shigong and other officials. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 20 September 2024.

NPC launches Rs. 189 billion 8-year nutrition plan

Kathmandu, Sept. 18

The National Planning Commission (NPC) launched the third Multi-Sector Nutrition Plan (MSNP) for eight years period from the 2023 to 2030.

The Rs. 189.45 billion project aims at ensuring availability of and people's access to qualitative nutrition service to improve the status of nutrition in human life-cycle. The MSNP-III plans to mobilise estimated Rs. 172.86 billon for the regular nutrition-related programmes implemented by the line-ministries and Rs. 16.58 billion would be spent on additional programmes.

Speaking at a programme organised to announce the new plan, Vice-Chairman of the NPC, Prof. Dr. Shiva Raj Adhikari, said that that MSNP-III focused on improving the availability, quality and accessibility of nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive services, while promoting positive social behaviour change. "It also aims to institutionalise a nutrition-friendly governance system across all three tiers of the government," he said.

According to Prof. Adhikari, then new plan serves as a central policy document and collaborative framework for advancing nutrition. "It offers wide opportunities for development partners, private sector, civil society, and stakeholders to work together and enhance nutrition outcomes for women, children and adolescents," he said.

The new MSNP-III is also expected to provide a clear roadmap for integrating nutrition projects and programmes by the government and development partners, minimising duplication, optimizing resources, and ensuring more effective implementation.

Prof. Adhikari also urged the development partners to increase their investment innutrition.

The immediate causes of chronic malnutrition in Nepal include poor feeding and care practices, insufficient nutrient intake, high rate of infection and teenage pregnancy.

Secretary of the NPC, Madhu Kumar Marasini, stated that an investment of Rs. 1 in the nutrition sector is expected to provide Rs. 18 in return which makes this area a priority sector of development.

Deputy Country Representative of the UNICEF to Nepal, Jee Hyun Rah, said that the UNICEF is keen to continue extending its support to realise the goals of the MSNP-III. "As we embark on the new journey for new MSNP, I would like to urge all stakeholders to put their efforts to make it a success," she said.

Bharat Kumar Bhattarai, Director of Association of District Coordination Committees of Nepal, said that the MSNP is about meeting Nepal's international commitment and national obligation to ensure health and wellbeing of citizens.

Similarly, Rajendra Pyakurel, ED of National Association of Rural Municipalities in Nepal, pledged the active participation of the local bodies in the plan and said, "The local governments are ready to implement result-oriented campaigns for physical and social development."

The first MSNP was announced in 2012/13 in collaboration with the European Union, UNICEF and other stakeholders including the civil society. It was implemented in 30 districts till 2016/17. Likewise, the second MSNP was implemented in all 753 local bodies of 77 districts from 2018/19 to 2022/23.

According to the Nepal Demographic and Health Survey 2022, nutrition situation in the country has been improved significantly in one decade. For example, anemia in girl child and women of reproductive age (6-59 years) has gone down to 34 per cent in 2022 from 43 per cent in 2011 while stunting in children below five years of age has decreased to 25 per cent from 41 per cent.

According to a report of the NPC, significant achievements were made in the use of maternal and child health care, basic water supply and sanitation facility, school enrolment and school completion rate. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 19 September 2024.

PM Oli leaving for UNGA

Kathmandu, Sept. 18

Leading a Nepali delegation to the 79^th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) being held at the UN Headquarters in New York Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli is leaving for the USA on Friday, September 20.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) of Nepal, the prime minister has a busy schedule while in New York including events at the UNGA, universities and sidelines of the General Assembly.

Prime Minister Oli will address the United Nations General Assembly on September 26. The theme for the 79^th UNGA General Debate is 'Leaving No One Behind: Acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development, and human dignity for present and future generations', informed the MoFA.

The Prime Minister will attend the opening session of the General Debate of the 79^th UNGA on September 24 and the reception being hosted by the President of the United States, Joseph Biden, Jr. on September 25.

While in New York, Prime Minister Oli will also address the Summit of the Future as the Chair of the Global Coordination Bureau of Least Developed Countries (LDCs). He will also address the High-Level Plenary Meeting on Addressing the Existential Threats Posed by Sea-Level Rise, and the High-Level Meeting on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), among others, informed the MoFA.

Likewise, PM Oli will deliver a keynote address on 'Nepal’s Journey to Democracy and Economic Prosperity' at Columbia University on September 23. In addition, he will also speak at the John F. Kennedy Jr. Forum at Harvard University, on 'Nepal’s Perspective: From Transitional Justice to Climate Justice' on September 27.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Oli will have a meeting with the Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres and is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings in the margins of the UNGA.

The Prime Minister will be accompanied by his spouse Radhika Shakya, Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister Bishnu Prasad Rimal, Foreign Secretary Sewa Lamsal and other senior officials of the government.

PM Oli will return to Kathmandu on September 30. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 19 September 2024.

FM Dr. Deuba Reaches Ottawa

 Kathmandu, Sept. 18

Minister for Foreign Affairs of Nepal, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, has reached Ottawa on Tuesday.

She is leading a Nepali delegation, at the invitation of her Canadian counterpart, Melanie Joly, to the Women Foreign Ministers’ Meeting being held in Toronto on 19-20 September 2024.

The meeting will be organised on 19-20 September in Toronto.

Upon her arrival at the Montréal Trudeau International Airport, Foreign Minister Dr. Deuba was received by Ambassador of Nepal, Bharat Raj Paudyal, officials of the Embassy of Nepal and the protocol officials of the Government of Canada, the Embassy informed in a statement.

FM. Dr. Deuba is set to have a bilateral meeting with Canadian FM Joly in Ottawa on Wednesday. She will also hold a meeting with Canada-Nepal Parliamentary Friendship Group at the Parliament Hill.

She will also attend the National Day reception being hosted by the Embassy of Nepal in Ottawa.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 19 September 2024.

CNY YEF forms its chapter in Madhes

 Kathmandu, Sept. 17

The youth wing of the Confederation of Nepalese Industries – CNI Young Entrepreneurs Forum has formed its chapter in Madhes Province.

The chapter is led by Rajat Bajaj while Ayosi Tulsiyana, Anunay Rungta, Anushree Agrawal and Deepak Sah are on the board.

Formed in 2008, the CNI-YEF is working to promote and encourage youth entrepreneurs in Nepal.

Speaking at the programme organised to announce the formation of the chapter on Monday in Birgunj, Chief Minister of Madhes, Satish Kumar Singh, expressed his commitment to encourage entrepreneurs. He said that a fund has been created to promote entrepreneurship in the province and that it was necessary to promote entrepreneurship to create jobs in the country.

He said that something should be done within the country when the youths are going abroad due to lack of employment. According to CM Singh, the provincial government wanted to move forward together with the private sector for the economic development of the entire country along with the province.

Rajesh Kumar Agarwal, President of the CNI, said that it was necessary to encourage, motivate and encourage young entrepreneurs for the overall economic development while increasing employment in the country and developing industrialisation.

"There are a large number of young people who return to Nepal after completing their study abroad to do something in their own country. It is necessary to encourage them for enterprise development in the country, and for this, the local, provincial and federal governments should create facilitating policies," said Agrawal.

Pramod Sah, President of CNI in Madhes, emphasised that young entrepreneurs should be encouraged through legal and policy provisions.

Ashish Agrawal, President of CNI-YEF, said that the economic development of Madhes province could bring prosperity to the entire country.

Likewise, Rajat Bajaj, expressed his belief that the state government would encourage and cooperate with young entrepreneurs.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 18 September 2024.

NTWC completes 54 years in business

 Kathmandu, Sept. 15

Nepal Transport and Warehousing Company Limited (NTWCL), a state-owned enterprise has entered its 55^th year of establishment. The company was established in September 1970 with the aim of providing transportation related services for goods exported from Nepal to overseas countries and imported from those countries.

Industry, Commerce and Supplies Minister Damodar Bhandari said that the company should proceed with a business plan in the coming days.

"The jurisdiction of the company should be improved. There is no option but to move forward by making an effective and strategic action plan," he said, "It is not possible to fulfill the target of Nepal's international trade in the current state. There are a lot of challenges and complications that must be overcome with better professional performance."

Minister Bhandari said that many daunting obstacles have been overcome in the past many years since the establishment of the company.

Likewise, the Secretary of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, Krishna Bahadur Raut emphasised that the company should expand its services. He said that everyone's support and cooperation is necessary to make the company agile.

According to him, there is a need to expand the branches through institutional restructuring.

Chairman of the NTWCL, Chhapiraj Pant promised to play a more specific and sophisticated role in Nepal's import-export trade, warehouse operation and transportation facilitation. He said that he expected the creative support and cooperation of all stakeholders to make the company more dynamic and expand its services.

Likewise, General Manager of the company, Prakash Prasad Pokharel, said that the company will develop a business plan and move forward and there is a plan to start the construction of infrastructure for coal storage on the leased land in Haldia of India to invite private investment partnership in the construction of infrastructure on the leased land in Kolkata Port, and to prepare a business model for the operation of truck transportation services from Kolkata to Nepal.

Under the Companies Act of India, 1956, this company, which has been registered as a foreign company in India and is continuously providing services, is providing services through eight offices, including the central office, branches and sub-branches.

The NTWCL was established with the aim of supporting the development of Nepal's economy by facilitating the import-export trade, increasing transportation-related facilities in foreign trade and stabilising costs, and providing necessary facilities and services to all government and non-government customers.

The company has branch offices in Kolkata, Kakadbhitta, Birgunj, Gautam Buddha International Airport and Tribhuvan International Airport. Similarly, there are sub-branches in Haldia and Radhikapur.

Through these offices, the company provides clearing (customs documentation, duty and tax calculation and customs clearance), forwarding (transport coordination, transportation documentation, cargo handling and warehousing) and undertaking services, informed Pokharel.

In the Fiscal Year 2022/23, the company has earned Rs. 302.2 million and spent Rs. 261.1 million to earn a net profit of Rs. 41.1. The company has an accumulated profit of Rs. 543.8 million.

The Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies and the Financial Comptroller General Office hold 12,243 units of shares in the company at the rate of 1,000 per share.

The company has prepared annual policy and programmes to further expand the service area in the current Fiscal Year 2024/25. It has emphasised on the construction of necessary infrastructure for the commercial use of long-term leased land in Kolkata-Haldia in India and Birganj-Raxaul in India.

According to Pokharel, procedural arrangements will be made regarding operation and management partnership.

It is mentioned in the policy and programmes that necessary study and consultations will be conducted for the search of new business opportunities while absorbing the changes in the nature of logistics services related to business facilitation that the company has been operating traditionally.

Similarly, to increase the company's role in transportation logistics, it said that it will look for formal partnership possibilities with related parties and emphasize on marketing and marketing.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 16 September 2024.

Nepal Chamber, Lumbini holds workshop to craft strategy

Kathmandu, Sept. 14

The strategic planning workshop of Nepal Chamber of Commerce, Lumbini Provincial committee opened on Thursday in Tansen of Palpa district.

After the recently concluded session of NCC Lumbini Province, the Chamber said that a strategic workshop was organised to prepare an action plan for the next three years. The provincial committee chose Tansen as the venue to create the strategy, it informed in a statement on Saturday. Tansen is considered as a hill station in Lumbini Province with good weather and panoramic view.

Inaugurating the workshop, Santosh Lal Shrestha, Mayor of Tansen Municipality, called for support for the tourism and business promotion of Palpa district including Tansen. He expressed concern that despite being a hub for health, education and business historically, Tansen is lagging behind.

He urged the businesspersons to invest in Tansen and surrounding areas pointing to the high potential of business. According to Shrestha, the investors should make their investments in tourism and other infrastructures as well as other businesses in Tansen and other areas of the district before the Siddartha Highway connecting Bhairahawa with Pokhara is upgraded to a six-lane road.

Chairman of NCC Lumbini, Tanka Pokahrel, said that the NCC Lumbini Chapter is formulating a strategic plan for the next three years and it will include programmes that would be executed at the international, national, regional, district and municipal level. He said that organisation aimed at developing it as a guardian institution for the industrialists and businesspersons.

According to Pokharel, the NCC wanted to move forward in cooperation with all three levels of government and other stakeholders and sought cooperation from them as well.

Speaking at the event, Sridhar Mahara, Senior Vice-president of NCC Lumbini, said that the Chamber would leave no stone unturned to promote business interests and welfare of the business community. He maintained that the Lumbini provincial committee wanted to make a departure in terms of policy making and implementation.

Mukunda Gyawali is facilitating the formulation of the strategy.

The whole working committee of NCC Lumbini Province and chairpersons of various district and municipal working committees attended the workshop. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 15 September 2024.

Stable policy key for private sector growth

Kathmandu, Sept. 14

President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Chandra Prasad Dhakal, stated that the private sector needs a stable policy environment to operate freely.

During a meeting with the mission of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Saturday, Dhakal urged the IMF to understand Nepal's economy and social structure and provide policy advice accordingly.

"Nepal's economic structure and characteristics are unique and different," he said, adding that delays in reforms would occur if policies were not tailored accordingly, informed the FNCCI in a statement.

Dhakal also pointed out that Nepal's banking system currently has high liquidity, and although interest rates have dropped, there is still low demand for investment from the private sector. According to him, the FNCCI has urged banks and financial institutions to provide flexibility in lending on their own terms, adding that excessive regulation could erode confidence in both the banking sector and private businesses.

Dhakal expressed confidence that the new generation of reforms announced by the government on the advice of the private sector could provide solutions.

He informed the mission that eight laws had been amended and a draft bilateral investment agreement had been prepared to attract and increase investment ahead of the recent investment summit. Similarly, Dhakal urged the IMF to assist in promoting Nepal as a destination for foreign investment. He said that even with high foreign exchange reserves and a positive balance of payments, the country had not been able to attract foreign investment.

During the meeting, IMF Mission Chief Dr. Sarwat Jahan said that the IMF had come to assist Nepal. She also stated that the IMF has always been positive about the need to give importance to the private sector.                                            

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 15 September 2024.

Job fair held

Kathmandu, Sept. 14

Phoenix College of Management, Universal College and Jobs Dynamics Pvt. Ltd. have organised a job fair with the aim of mediating the possibilities and utilisation of skills and abilities of young students.

The five-day job fair that concluded on Friday also included career grooming sessions.

Raju Tandon, coordinator of the job fair, informed that it included resume writing, interview skills, understanding the job market scenario and other job-related skill enhancement programmes.

About 30 companies from Nepal and four companies from India participated in the fair. These companies represented various sectors such as manufacturing, technology, services, trade, corporate houses and e-commerce, and provided on-campus employment and career opportunities to college students.

About 250 students participated in the programme and more than 560 real-time interviews were conducted.

According to the organisers, the job fair project has served as an important platform to strengthen coordination between industry and educational institutions. The fair provided an opportunity for students to get career, internship, and employment opportunities. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 15 September 2024.

Infrastructure Summit stresses development issues

 Kathmandu, Sept. 14: 

The Nepal Infrastructure Summit 2024 concluded in the Capital on Friday with extensive deliberations on cross-cutting issues of development including energy and water resources, digital and information technology, transport infrastructure construction, urban development and waste management. 

The two-day flagship summit jointly organised by the Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) and Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport (MoPIT) also dealt with the issues of provincial and local governments' development engagement and role of women. 

Addressing the closing programme of the event, former Prime Minister and Chairman of CPN (Maoist Centre) Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda said that the development of physical infrastructure was indispensable for the overall economic development of Nepal. 

Stating that various laws related to business and investment were amended and formulated during the Investment Summit earlier this year to make the investment environment better in Nepal, Prachanda urged the investors from Nepal and abroad to make investment in infrastructure. 

He termed the organisation of the summit as a creative and constructive move to contribute to the nation's development and economy and expressed his belief that the Government of Nepal will accept the suggestions made in the conference and implement the reforms accordingly. 

The Summit was coorganised by the Investment Board of Nepal (IBN) and Youth Community for Nepalese Contractors (YCNC). 

Rajesh Kumar Agrawal, President of CNI, informed that the suggestions regarding the importance of strategic investment to advance the sustainable development of Nepal would be provided to the government. 

"Models of infrastructure development, identification of practical aspects that can be implemented in Nepal and the steps to be taken to ensure that our infrastructure projects are not only economically but also socially and 

environmentally sustainable, were clearly suggested during the summit," he said. 

Likewise, Secretary of the MoPIT, Keshab Kumar Sharma, said that the infrastructure conference received important suggestions from foreign and domestic experts on Nepal's infrastructure development. He expressed his commitment to accept the suggestions made in the conference and take the necessary steps for their implementation.

Earlier, discussing the energy sector development in Nepal, stakeholders said that the country had made a tremendous progress in clean energy, investment has gone up and use has increased. 

While private sector played an instrumental role in this drive, they are still facing challenges at various fronts. The electricity bill is stuck at the parliament while there are multitudes of problems in cutting trees and land acquisition at the development site, said energy entrepreneurs, Kumar Pandey. 

Experts suggested the government focus on reservoir-based hydroelectricity projects for the seamless supply of quality energy. They also said that it is still challenging to manage investment for the government target to develop projects generating 28,500 megawatts of electricity by 2035. 

However, Ganesh Karki, President of Independent Energy Producers Association of Nepal (IPPAN), said that there were opportunities in Nepal's energy sector, from capital investment to production of necessary machinery.

"Generating 28,500 megawatts would require an investment of Rs. 4600 billion, and accordingly, there would be great opportunities for other businesses that are connected with it," he said. 

Former joint-secretary, Keshab Dhoj Adhikari, informed that Nepal is at 115th position globally in terms of energy consumption. Total installed capacity of Nepal in electricity has reached 3,062 MW in which the private sector is contributing 2436 MW. 

Likewise, the experts from the session on transport infrastructure said that key issues in Nepal’s transport involved inadequate road maintenance, with only 6 per cent of the budget allocated compared to the recommended 12-15 per cent as well as problems with road functionality and safety, leading to inefficiencies and high accident rates. 

Incomplete projects and inefficient procurement processes also contribute to the difficulties.

The stakeholders suggested that the private sector should be engaged more effectively in infrastructure development and public transportation improvements. This includes better coordination, adoption of new technologies, and ensuring project viability. However, the government may need to provide guarantees or subsidies to attract private investment and ensure project success and safety.

Likewise, the provincial and local government stakeholders said that they face inadequate fiscal transfer, with provincial expenditures accounting for less than 10 per cent of the federal government’s total expenditure. 

Capacity gaps, a lack of institutional structures, and the federal government’s encroachment on smaller local projects hamper their progress, they said. Coordination issues between federal and provincial governments, along with a centralist mindset, exacerbate these challenges.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 14 September 2024.