NA chair for cooperation to deal with global issues

 Kathmandu, Oct. 15

Narayan Prasad Dahal, Chairperson of the National Assembly of Nepal, called for international cooperation to ensure equitable access to the benefits of STI for all and to mitigate its negative impacts through sharing of knowledge, experiences, and resources.

Addressing the 149^th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) at Geneva International Conference Centre in Geneva on Monday, he stressed that the advancements in STI should be considered as a global good, according to the Permanent Mission of Nepal in Geneva.

The Assembly is being convened under the theme of ‘Harnessing Science, Technology, and Innovations (STI) for a More Peaceful and Sustainable Future’ from 13 to 17 October.

The Mission informed in the statement that the Chairperson emphasised the importance of inter-parliamentary cooperation in addressing pressing global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality.

"He noted that the theme of the 149^th Assembly aligns with current global priorities, particularly following the recent adoption of the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact, and the Declaration on Future Generations by the 79^th UN General Assembly," read the statement.

He added that the STI holds transformative potential towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. 

Similarly, Dahal highlighted that the recent passage of the transitional justice related bill unanimously by the federal parliament of Nepal paved the path toward a lasting peace in the country. He expressed gratitude to the international community for their support and good wishes in Nepal’s peace process.

In the afternoon on Monday, Dahal held meetings with Dr. Tulia Ackson, President of the IPU and Martin Chungong, Secretary General of the IPU. Matters relating to strengthening Nepal-IPU relations and enhancing inter-parliamentary cooperation in the regional and global context were discussed on the occasion.

Later in the evening, Dahal and members of the delegation visited the Mission and took stock of Mission’s activities and engagements in Geneva.

Ram Prasad Subedi, Ambassador/Permanent Representative of Nepal to the United Nations and other International Organisations in Geneva had received Dahal and Nepal's parliamentary delegation upon their arrival at Geneva International Airport on Saturday.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 16 October 2024.