Levrat calls for donor support in empowering minorities

Kathmandu, Dec. 12

Nepal must close the gap between clear constitutional and legislative provisions and their meaningful implementation to effectively prohibit discrimination against persons belonging to minorities, including Dalits, a United Nations expert said on Friday.

"Minorities' and Dalits' unhindered access to education is the gateway to building skills and confidence, and breaking through cycles of poverty that have prevented them from realising the full enjoyment of their rights and their meaningful contribution to society as a whole," said Nicolas Levrat, the UN Special Rapporteur on minority issues, in a statement at the end of his visit to Nepal.

Speaking at an interaction with journalists, Levrat urged the donor community to efficiently support Nepal in designing and implementing empowering programmes conceived with and for the benefit of persons belonging to minorities.

Presenting preliminary findings of his assessment of the legislation, status of practice in Nepal, he called for a partnership with local authorities who have the means to deliver effective support to minorities and Dalits in the communities where they reside.

In the last 10 days, Levrat conducted meetings with minority stakeholders, communities, government institutions – including federal and provincial ministries, civil society organisations and various commissions and concluded Nepal has effectively implemented international obligations to the human rights of minorities.

According to him, there are no proper standards to measure the relationship or impact of economic-social empowerment on reducing discrimination and creating an equal society.

"There are no clear standards, we are working on them," he said.

"In this period of political transition, it is time to rebuild trust in the Nepali social contract. Minorities and Dalits must feel that they can trust state institutions to protect them, and Nepalese society as a whole must trust that their contributions enrich and uplift society," said Levrat.

According to him, minorities and Dalits must have trust in themselves to advocate for and realise their civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights.

Stating that the situation of Dalits has improved in the last one-and-a-half decades and this is not enough, he underscored the prevalence of intersectional discrimination – women and girls within the minority groups are facing additional discrimination and often are the victims of violence.

He also maintained that the state institutions must better reflect the diversity of Nepali society in their composition and leadership.

"Minorities must be able to recognise themselves in those exercising power. They must feel heard and understood by public servants - including teachers, judges, and the police - in their mother tongue language," he stated. 

The expert expressed profound concern about the high rate of impunity for crimes against Dalits, such as violence linked to inter-caste marriages.

"Access to justice must include well-functioning enforcement mechanisms and sanctions of perpetrators. It will lead to the dismantlement of a system and mindsets that have enabled caste-based violence and discrimination as well as a culture of impunity," said Levrat. 

He warned about the curtailment of religious freedom, through selective use of the anti-conversion provision, leading to discrimination against religious minorities.

He welcomed the draft of a comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation protecting ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities, including those affected by forms of intersectional discrimination such as Dalit women, the Badi community, the Tharu community, minorities belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community, minorities with disabilities, Madhesis, Muslims and Christians, the UN Human Rights said in a news release.

The Special Rapporteur will present a full report to the Human Rights Council in March 2026.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 13 December 2025.

Gen-Z movement report submitted

Physical damage estimated at Rs. 84 billion

 

Kathmandu, Dec. 11

The committee formed to assess the damage caused by the Gen-Z movement of September 8 and 9 and prepare a reconstruction plan for public infrastructure has submitted its report to Prime Minister Sushila Karki at her office on Thursday.

The committee's chairperson, and Secretary of the National Planning Commission, Rabilal Panth, also presented a summary of the report at the Cabinet meeting held at Singha Durbar also on Thursday.

The government had formed the committee on September 21 with a mandate to submit its report within 75 days.

According to the report, damage occurred across all seven provinces during the Gen-Z movement. A total of 54 districts and 262 local levels were affected by the movement.

It said that 77 people lost their lives - 20 on September 8, 37 on September 9, and 20 more in the days that followed.

Of the 2,429 injured, 17 were children under the age of 13. Additionally, 1,433 people between the ages of 13 and 28 were reported injured.

Regarding overall physical damage, the committee’s assessment estimates the total cost to be Rs. 84.457 billion which is closer to the preliminary estimates. This includes 2,168 affected agencies and 2,671 buildings that suffered damage, valued at Rs. 39.317 billion.

Likewise, 12,659 vehicles were damaged during the protests, leading to a loss of Rs. 1.93 billion.

The damage to the public sector is estimated to be Rs. 44.93 billion, while damage in the private sector has been valued at Rs. 33.54 billion.

The loss in the community and other sectors is estimated at Rs. 5.97.

Of the total government damage, the federal government accounts for 68 per cent, while the provincial and local levels bear 10 per cent and 22 per cent, respectively.

The committee has also proposed a reconstruction plan. It is estimated that a budget of Rs. 36.30 billion will be required for the reconstruction efforts.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 12 December 2025.

Speeches do not feed people: PM

Kathmandu, Dec. 11

A delegation from the Jai Matrubhumi Party submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Sushila Karki on Thursday, stating that the government should focus on the core agenda of good governance rather than solely preparing for elections.

The delegation included senior party leaders, Captain KB Limbu, Co-chairman Ram Sharan Pandey, and General Secretary Govind Giri, among others.

The party also demanded that swift action be taken against the oppressors and corrupt individuals involved in the Gen-Z movement to create a conducive environment for the election.

The party’s main demand is that the government, whose core issue is tackling corruption, should continue to focus on this and take appropriate action.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Karki suggested that the party should enter the elections with its own agenda. She stated that actions against corruption are being carried out concurrently, informed the PM’s secretariat.

She noted that those involved in politics tend to make speeches, but we need a party that will work towards putting production at the centre of the national agenda.

“There are many parties that merely express their opinions, but none have worked on focusing on jobs and employment. This is why the country's economic situation has weakened. There are no employment opportunities in the country, forcing people to migrate abroad,” she said while adding, “It has created disillusionment among the youth. So, let us work in such a way that no such protests are needed in the future.”

According to her, the leaders are only making speeches. But speeches do not feed people. “Therefore, you should also go to the elections. Elect MPs who are committed to doing good work for the economic prosperity and good governance of the country. It is the individual efforts of each person that will lead the country to good governance and prosperity,” she said.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 12 December 2025.

Minister Kharel stresses on quality education

Kathmandu, Dec. 11

Minister for Communications and Information Technology Jagdish Kharel said that all stakeholders must be serious about ensuring quality education for every child.

“There is nothing greater in this world than education as it is the light that dispels darkness. Let us all wish that the children who are still deprived of education today can go to school and study well,” he said while inaugurating Kitab Jatra (a book fair) in Kathmandu on Thursday.

According to him, everyone’s access to education must be expanded to build an educated Nepal.

Minister Kharel mentioned that the government is committed to holding the elections within the stipulated time and is working to maintain good governance and control corruption in line with the spirit of the Gen-Z movement.

“We have joined the government at a sensitive time. The responsibility to lead the nation along a path of transformation rests on all our shoulders, so let us all work together to achieve this,” he said.

Director of Kitab Jatra, Rishi Raj Adhikari, said that the event has been organised to develop a reading culture and raise public awareness about education. According to the organisers, the two-day event includes a book exhibition as well as various academic sessions.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 12 December 2025.

47 Nepalis rescued from Myanmar, repatriated to Kathmandu

Kathmandu, Dec. 10

A total of 47 Nepali citizens who had been lured to Myanmar through false employment promises and forced to work in illegal online scamming centres have been rescued and repatriated to Nepal.

The rescue operation was carried out by the Embassy of Nepal in Bangkok with the support and coordination of relevant Thai authorities. The group arrived in Kathmandu on Wednesday on a Nepal Airlines flight.

The Embassy informed in a statement that the rescued individuals are from 26 districts and included 45 men and 2 women.

The duration of their forced employment in the scamming centres ranges from two months to 18 months.

Those repatriated comprised one individual each from Chitwan, Dailekh, Kaski, Kathmandu, Kavre, Palpa, Ramechhap, Rautahat, Salyan, Sarlahi, Sindhuli, Taplejung and Tehrathum; two each from Dang, Mahottari, Morang, Nawalparasi, Nuwakot, Syangja and Tanahun; three each from Dhading, Gorkha, Rupandehi, Sindhupalchok and Udaypur; and five from Jhapa.

"The age group of the rescued ranged widely, including one 17-year-old, 26 individuals aged between 20 and 25, ten aged between 26 and 30, eight aged between 31 and 35, and two individuals aged 40 and 41, respectively," read the statement.

Most had completed 10+2 level education and several had backgrounds in information technology.

The Embassy reported that the victims had been recruited through various channels, including friends, acquaintances, online gaming partners, and social media advertisements.

Interestingly, some had been contacted while studying in India or working abroad in countries such as the UAE. Platforms such as WhatsApp, Viber, Messenger, TikTok and Telegram were commonly used to make job offers, often promising attractive hourly wages in Kathmandu.

"After initial communication, they were persuaded with claims of high-salary opportunities abroad in office work, call centres, computer operation or receptionist roles, leading them eventually to centres operating illegal online dating, casino, gaming, phishing and cryptocurrency scams," according to the Embassy.

The rescued individuals said that once inside these scamming networks, they were initially treated well, but later subjected to pressure through strict performance targets. Failure to meet these targets resulted in accusations of other crimes, severe financial penalties, physical abuse, confinement, extortion, threats of imprisonment, or even violence.

Some were held hostage until they brought in another recruit to replace them.

 

141 rescued this year

In recent years, citizens of Nepal and several other countries have become stranded in scamming hubs located along the Cambodia–Thailand border, Myanmar–Thailand border, and in Laos.

In response, the Nepali Embassy in Bangkok began issuing travel advisories from August 23, warning Nepali people against travelling to these regions for unverified employment. But Nepali youth are turning deaf ears to such advisories and fallen prey to the scammer schemes that promise foreign employment with high income.

The Embassy has since been working with Thai authorities to rescue Nepalis identified as victims of human trafficking. According to official data, 68 Nepalis were rescued in Fiscal Year 2023/24, 156 in FY 2024/25 and 141 in the current FY 2025/26 so far.

 

Cooperation with Thai government

According to the Embassy, the latest rescue was carried out under the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) introduced by the Thai government to facilitate the repatriation of foreign nationals stranded in Myawaddy, Myanmar.

The SOP involves coordination between Myanmar’s military or police authorities, Myanmar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and local Thai immigration offices. The Embassy verifies travel documents and issues one-way permits where necessary before arranging repatriation.

It said that the rescued individuals underwent basic health checks, screening for human-trafficking indicators, immigration procedures and baggage inspections before being flown to Nepal.

The Thai government has requested that Nepal investigate the cases fully to identify and prosecute the actual perpetrators behind the trafficking networks.

Suspecting that some returnees may have acted as victims or intermediaries within the trafficking chain, the Embassy has also urged authorities to conduct necessary inquiries.

Meanwhile, the Embassy has once again appealed to Nepali citizens to avoid rushing abroad under dubious employment offers, to verify job claims made through social media or acquaintances, and to seek foreign employment only through official government channels.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 11 December 2025.

Swedeshi Bazaar being held on Saturday

Kathmandu, Dec. 10

The Make in Nepal – Swadeshi Campaign, operated in collaboration between the Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies (MoICS), is organising Swadeshi Bazaar 2025 with the support and coordination of the Department of Industry.

The one-day exhibition, scheduled for Saturday, December 13 at the International Club in Sanepa, Lalitpur, aims to promote quality Nepali products under the theme 'Made in Nepal – Nepal’s Identity'.

The event intends to enhance the capacity of domestic industries and enterprises, promote Nepali production, and support local producers in expanding market access, the CNI informed in a statement on Wednesday.

To promote small, medium and cottage industries, the exhibition will provide stalls free of charge and free entry to the general public. More than 3,000 visitors are expected to participate.

Around 40–50 industries and enterprises will take part in the exhibition, representing sectors including agriculture and agro-technology, food and processed goods, textiles and clothing, handicrafts and arts, ayurvedic and health-related products, decorative items, tea and beverages, and various manufacturing industries.

"Through this platform, participating industries will showcase their products and services publicly, interact directly with consumers, and engage in networking programmes with potential buyers, distributors, business partners and stakeholders," read the statement.

CNI President Birendra Raj Pandey expressed confidence that Swadeshi Bazaar 2025 will highlight the identity of Nepali industry, skills, innovation and entrepreneurship at the national level, and contribute to strengthening the national economy by promoting the consumption of domestic products.

With the government adopting a policy to promote domestic products and industries, the event is expected to boost the morale of Nepali industrialists, said the organisers. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 11 December 2025.

Govt, customs agents agree to put off strike

Kathmandu, Dec. 10

The government and the customs clearance agents have reached an agreement, bringing all customs offices across the country back into regular operation from Wednesday.

The Customs Agents Association had announced a nationwide pen-down strike on Tuesday, expressing objections to certain provisions in the newly enforced Customs Act 2082. As a result, customs offices were unable to process import and export cargo throughout the day.

Existing laws allow exporters and importers to appoint authorised representatives for customs clearance. However, the Association argued that the new Act had weakened the authority of customs agents and created difficulties for legitimate trade.

It also objected to the provision of heavy penalties for minor human errors committed during electronic data entry.

According to Association's President Prachin Kumar Thaiba, the protest was withdrawn after the Department of Customs (DoC) clarified that unintentional human errors made during the electronic entry of goods declarations would not incur penalties.

"The department had also committed to facilitating certain provisions of the Act through regulations, allowing clearance work to resume immediately," he added.

The DoC issued a statement on Wednesday, noting that it would gradually implement improvements related to the Association’s demands that fall within the department’s jurisdiction. It also stated that appropriate issues requiring amendments through regulations would be forwarded to the Ministry of Finance for consideration.

The halt in customs clearance had resulted in long queues of cargo trucks at customs points, with Indian media reporting that the disruption was beginning to affect markets on the Indian side of the border as well.

The Customs Act 2082, certified in September this year, came into effect on December 4.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 11 December 2025.

Insurers settle payments of Rs. 4.38 billion

Kathmandu, Dec. 10

In connection with the physical and other damages caused during the recent Gen-Z movement, non-life insurance companies have so far paid out approximately Rs. 4.384 billion including advance payments out of the total claimed amount of around Rs. 23.44 billion from 3,300 insurance claims.

According to updated data submitted to the Nepal Insurance Authority (NIA) by 14 non-life insurance companies and four micro non-life insurance companies, of the total amount paid, including advances, property insurance accounts for Rs. 3.122 billion paid against claims worth around Rs. 19.01 billion from 710 claims.

Likewise, in the motor insurance category, around Rs. 1.09 billion has been paid against claims worth approximately Rs. 3.48 billion from 2,308 claims, the NIA informed in a statement on Tuesday.

Similarly, in engineering and contractor’s risk insurance, Rs. 68.1 million has been paid against claims worth around Rs. 555.5 million from 225 claims.

In transport insurance, Rs. 6.6 million has been paid against claims worth around Rs. 16.9 million from 12 claims. Under other insurance categories, Rs. 4.9 million has been paid against claims worth around Rs. 384 million from 45 claims.

To support the settlement of claims arising from the damages caused during the Gen Z movement, Nepal Reinsurance Company has provided reinsurance claim payments of around Rs. 2.56 billion to non-life insurance companies.

Updated statistics from Nepal Reinsurance Company show that the total claimed amount from 2,861 reinsurance claims filed by 14 different non-life insurance companies stands at approximately Rs. 15.81 billion.

Meanwhile, non-life insurance companies have begun settling claims arising from the continuous rainfall, floods and landslides that affected the country early October this year.

The NIA informed that insurers have received a total of 781 preliminary insurance claims amounting to approximately Rs. 4.04 billion. Of these, 67 claims worth around Rs. 18.8 million have been paid to policyholders so far.

Updated figures submitted by 13 non-life insurance companies and two micro non-life insurers show that property insurance has seen the highest number of claims. Out of 410 property-related claims amounting to approximately Rs. 3.45 billion, insurers have settled 20 claims worth around Rs 8.3 million.

Insurers have stated that assessments and verification of damages are ongoing, and more claim settlements are expected in the coming days as field reports continue to arrive.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 11 December 2025.

CNI, SSF to collaborate in increasing awareness on social security

Kathmandu, Dec. 9

The Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) and the Social Security Fund (SSF) have reached an understanding to increase awareness about social security in the industrial sector and to encourage workers to enrol in the scheme.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Kathmandu on Monday during an orientation and interaction programme on social security jointly organised by CNI and SSF.

Under this collaboration, CNI will support its member industries in enrolling in the social security scheme, conducting awareness programmes across the country, providing necessary information, and ensuring the long-term welfare of workers, CNI informed in a statement.

The MoU was signed by CNI Director General Dr. Ghanshyam Ojha and SSF Executive Director Kabiraj Adhikari.

Speaking at the programme, CNI President Birendra Raj Pandey said the collaboration is highly significant for both workers and industries. He expressed CNI’s commitment to continuously support industries in joining the SSF and stated that this partnership would help make the social security system more practical and accessible.

Secretary of the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security, Dr. Krishna Hari Pushkar, emphasised that the SSF is an important foundation for making workers’ lives easier and more secure. He added that this agreement will play a vital role in increasing the active participation of workers and employers from all sectors and in supporting them to be integrated into the registration system.

Likewise, CNI Vice-President Bhim Ghimire said that the Fund is not merely a welfare programme but a key foundation for human capital development. He maintained that CNI would also conduct similar awareness and interaction programmes extensively at the provincial level.

Executive Director of the SSF, Kabiraj Adhikari, said that the partnership is important for further strengthening the social security system and expanding the benefits available to workers.

 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 10 December 2025.

CIAA files corruption case against 55 individuals

 Kathmandu, Dec. 7

The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has filed cases against 55 persons, including five former Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation ministers, including late Posta Bahadur Bogati and former Finance minister Dr. Ram Sharan Mahat, for misusing the funds of Pokhara Regional International Airport.

Based on the complaint filed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), the anti-graft body alleged that the ministers, secretaries, construction company colluded to increase the contract construction cost to US$244.04 million against the cost fixed at US$169.69 million. The CIAA said that there was an unnatural increment in the project cost by US$74.34 million (Rs. 8.36 billion as per 112.55 exchange rate of Nepali Rupee on 10 August 2018).

Former ministers Ram Kumar Shrestha, Bhim Prasad Acharya, Deepak Chandra Amatya are indicted by the CIAA. Since former Minister Bogati has already passed away, his wife, Rammaya Bogati, has been made the defendant.

Former Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA) Sushil Ghimire, Suresh Man Shrestha, Suman Prasad Sharma, Bhesh Raj Sharma, Deputy Secretary Ranjan Krishna Aryal, Mohal Krishna Sapkota and Lok Bahadur Khatri, and former board members of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) Committee Man Rup Shahi, Jyoti Adhikari, Manoj Karki, Furba Chiring Sherpa, Suresh Acharya, Madan Kharel, Mukti Narayan Paudel, and Surya Prasad Acharya are also involved.

Similarly, former Director Generals of the CAAN Civil Aviation Authority, Tri Ratna Manandhar, Ratish Chandra Lal Suman, former Deputy Director General Suman Kumar Shrestha, and Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism Hari Bahadur Khadka have also been indicted.

In relation to irregularities at the airport, the sub-committee under the Public Accounts Committee of the House of Representatives concluded in April this year that corruption had occurred at the project developed with Chinese support. China has also been saying that the project was included in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The house panel had directed the CIAA to conduct an investigation. According to the sub-committee formed by the PAC, irregularities were estimated at around Rs. 10 billion.

 

‘China CAMC acted in bad faith’

Cases are also filed against the construction company China CAMC Engineering Co. Ltd.

“Ignoring the public procurement regulations, the contractor company CAMC Engineering acted in bad faith, without reasonable justification inflated the cost estimate unnaturally. This was done to unlawfully benefit itself and other involved defendants,” the CIAA said in a statement.

It also said that it has been observed that China CAMC Engineering Co. Ltd. communicated with public servants in bad faith to achieve this inflated cost.

According to it, immediately after the approval of the cost estimate, the China CAMC Engineering unlawfully submitted a proposal to increase the project cost to US$287 million, which was done in bad faith. “This indicates that the company was attempting from the very beginning of the construction procurement process to secure the contract at an inflated price by any means necessary,” read the statement.

On 21 March 2012, a Pre-Bid Meeting was held at the CAAN with representatives from China CAMC Engineering Co. Ltd. During the meeting, no questions were raised about the approved cost estimate, but later, defendants unlawfully manipulated the tender evaluation process to secure an inflated contract.

Likewise, in response to a letter from the MoCTCA , the Ministry of Finance advised that technical decisions regarding the airport design, approval, and cost limits should be made in accordance with the law. Despite this, the Tourism Ministry proceeded with a proposal to the Cabinet, showing bad faith in the contracting process for Pokhara Regional International Airport.

 

Cabinet used as a shield

Even though the Cabinet's decision on 20 February 2013 clarified that the matter should not be repeatedly presented, concerned government officials continued to push the proposal through the Cabinet, likely aiming to protect themselves from legal consequences and misuse of authority, demonstrating a clear intent to act in bad faith, according to the CIAA.

According to it, the decision of the CAAN’s Board on 29 October 2013, to send the revised cost estimate for government approval, was unlawful. By involving China CAMC Engineering Co. Ltd. in the procurement process and approving nominal consultation, the defendants' illegal collusion and intent to further their personal interests obstructed proper procurement procedures.

Despite knowing that it violated the Cabinet's decision of 11 September 2013, the MoCTCA, alongside the CAAN, manipulated the procurement process, bypassing legal protocols and intentionally acting in bad faith to advance the project unlawfully.

The CIAA concluded that despite receiving clear guidance from the Public Procurement Monitoring Office, the CAAN, through illegal collusion with various officials, continued the procurement process, seeking to cover up wrongdoing and avoid accountability, contrary to Nepal's procurement laws.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 December 2025.

Minister Khanal reproves attacks on private sector

Kathmandu, Dec. 7

Finance Minister Rameshore Khanal has said that attacks on the private sector are not appropriate.

“The structures and assets created by the private sector also belong to the Nepali people. The private sector will eventually leave them behind after a certain period. Owners of businesses might change over the years, but they will continue to contribute to society and the economy,” he said while speaking at the 16^th Annual General Assembly programme of the Nepal Association of Financial Journalists (NAFIJ) held in Kathmandu on Sunday.

He urged all to work together to protect the private sector.

According to him, the central issue of the Gen Z movement is economic prosperity, adding that the youths taking to the streets are demanding an end to corruption and a guarantee of good governance.

Minister Khanal said that elections will be held on time with the consensus of all parties and the general public. He stressed the need to build an environment, both domestically and internationally, of conducting timely elections in a safe, fearless and fair manner as part of the democratic process.

As Nepal has been receiving positive evaluations internationally, he said the government must continue enhancing reforms in the days ahead.

 

NRB working to lift business morale

Speaking at the programme, Nepal Rastra Bank Governor Dr. Biswo Poudel said that the central bank has amended various policies to stimulate economic activities. “In the first quarterly review of the Monetary Policy of Fiscal Year 2025/26, we have made provisions easier to help financial institutions increase their profits. We have also opened the way for many bank branches in metropolitan areas to be closed,” he said.

He added that the central bank is working to support economic momentum by ensuring good profits and investments for banks and promoting digital transactions. Noting that morale is currently low, Dr. Poudel said it needs to be lifted. “Our economic policies are strong, but morale is weak. To raise it, we must focus on positive aspects. For example, we should promote successful export sectors such as cardamom. We can move in the right direction if we prioritise what is needed.”

He also stated that Nepal Rastra Bank is studying the provisions related to blacklisting.

Likewise, Investment Board Nepal CEO Sushil Gyewali said that although some foreign investors are in ‘wait and see’ mode, none have stated that they will not invest in Nepal or withdraw their existing investments. He said investors are still enthusiastic about investing in Nepal.

“We have projects worth Rs. 1,700 billion in the pipeline. Some investors are observing the situation. But none of those interested in investing have said they will pull out. On the contrary, they say that Nepal’s investment environment is improving and they are eager to move ahead swiftly,” Gyewali said.

Secretary of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, Radhika Aryal, said that the value and credibility of news have been diminishing due to AI. “The journalism sector as a whole is at a critical juncture. AI has increased uncertainty about where journalism is headed. AI has eroded the value and credibility of news content,” she said.

 

Public-private cooperation stressed

Representatives of the private sector said that Nepal’s economy can only improve if the government and private sector move ahead together. They said that the economy will regain momentum only when both sides work hand in hand.

President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Chandra Prasad Dhakal, said the economy cannot gain momentum unless the government and the private sector progress together. “It has already been proven that unless the government and the private sector work side by side, Nepal’s economy cannot move forward,” he said.

Likewise, President of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce, Kamalesh Agrawal, said economic activities cannot be strengthened without the private sector. He argued that, as the private sector is the backbone of the economy, economic expansion cannot take place unless this sector itself is strengthened.

Saying that Nepal’s economy is currently in a state of transition, he pointed out the lack of investable capital in the private sector. He noted that high liquidity in the banking sector and the challenge of managing declining interest rates have contributed to uncertainty in the investment environment.

Similarly, President of the Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI), Birendra Raj Pandey, said the biggest challenge at present is the stagnation of investable funds within the financial system.

“The domestic economy is under pressure. Banks have sufficient investable funds. Even though interest rates are in single digits, overall market demand has not grown,” he said. “The biggest challenge today is that investable funds remain idle in the system. Idle money is never good for the economy.”

 

Journalists awarded

On the occasion, NAFIJ awarded journalists for best economic reporting. Rabin Poudel of Clickmandu received the Sharada–Dhundiraj NAFEJ Economic Journalism Award 2082, carrying a purse of Rs. 100,000.

Kamala Bhandari of Capital Nepal received the Rs. 50,000 CBFIN–NAFIJ Banking Journalism Award, and Ambika Sharma of Taksar received the Rs. 50,000 CBFIN–NAFIJ Economic Journalism Award.

In addition, the Shrawan Kumar Agrawal–NAFIJ Fellowship was awarded to Yam Bam of Naya Patrika Daily.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 December 2025.

SC lets BFIs sell non-banking assets without approval

Kathmandu, Dec. 7

The Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court has issued an interim order opening a path for banks and financial institutions (BFIs) to sell non-banking assets that have remained unsold and registered in their name for more than three years without the need for prior government approval.

The bench issued an interim order instructing the government not to implement the amended provision of Section 12 (cha) of the Land Act, 1964.

The provision requires the BFIs to sell non-banking assets—registered in their name after accepting auction bids during loan recovery—within three years, and to obtain approval from the government if the assets are not sold within that period.

Following this order, it is expected that the BFIs will receive some relief in managing and disposing of non-banking assets that have accumulated in their name due to loan recovery challenges amid the current economic slowdown, the Confederation of Banks and Financial Institutions of Nepal (CBFIN) said in a statement on Sunday.

A five-member Constitutional Bench comprising Chief Justice Prakash Man Singh Raut and Justices Kumar Regmi, Hari Prasad Phuyal, Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma, and Dr. Nahakul Subedi issued the interim order on November 26, following the hearing of a writ petition filed by the CBFIN against the Government of Nepal and the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation, among others.

The Act Amending Certain Nepal Acts Related to Investment Facilitation, 2081, published in the Nepal Gazette in July 2024, had introduced Section 12 (cha) into the Land Act, 1964.

The amendment required that land acquired by a bank, financial institution, or cooperative in the course of securing loans—if no bidder accepted the auction and the institution itself was compelled to accept the property—must be sold within three years.

If unable to sell within that timeframe, the institution would be required to obtain government approval before the disposal of such land. Prior to this amendment, there was no statutory time limit for the BFIs to sell non-banking assets registered in their name.

In its writ, CBFIN argued that the amended section of the Act contradicted with the constitutional guarantee of property-related rights, so it should be annulled.

While hearing the petition, the Constitutional Bench observed that the BFIs are compelled to retain non-banking assets when loan-secured property cannot be auctioned, and that requiring government approval after three years to sell such assets could expose banks' investments to direct risk, the CBFIN quoted the order.

The Bench further noted that the question of whether Section 12 (cha) is inconsistent with Articles 17(2)(c) and 25 of the Constitution remains to be decided in the final hearing. It stated that implementing this provision before the final settlement of the petition could cause irreparable harm to the BFIs. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 7 December 2025.

Regional cooperation in reverse

SAARC struggles to revive amidst internal tensions, leadership gap

 

Kathmandu, Dec. 6

Once a vibrant and highly potential regional organisation, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is now in a ‘state of coma’ with no significant activity except one in the last 11 years and no future planning.

Following the 18^th SAARC Summit held in Kathmandu in November 2014, a formal ministerial meeting of the member countries happened only once in 2016 in Pokhara of Nepal.

Since the 19^th SAARC Summit, scheduled to take place in Islamabad of Pakistan, in November 2016, was cancelled as several members (India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka) of the organisation boycotted it on the pretext of growing tensions between India and Pakistan, many thought that the regional mechanism was on the brink of failure.

India’s ‘Look East’ policy and efforts to strengthen the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Scientific, Technical and Economic Cooperation) further solidified this thought.

Meanwhile, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, a virtual informal meeting of the foreign ministers of the member countries was held in September 2020 which reminded the members that the regional mechanism like SAARC was needed for cooperation in need, and ignited hope that the organisation could witness a revival, although a gradual one.

 But a month after when Nepal’s then Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan, on the occasion of the 36^th SAARC Charter Day called for the organisation of the SAARC Summit, Indian PM Narendra Modi said that the effectiveness of SAARC would increase only if ‘terror and violence’ could be ended.

Indirectly indicating to Pakistan, he said it was impossible.

And the situation has remained the same since then, even the regional body is celebrating its 40^th anniversary this Tuesday.

“Forget about the 19^th summit happening soon. The region is at the same crossroads of time and space, history and geography. Its actually moving backwards in regional cooperation,” said former ambassador Dr. Shambhu Ram Simkhada.

According to him, the dilemma about ‘neighbourhood first or last?’ and the policy of ‘beggar thy neighbour’ keep the region divided, which has sent the SAARC into ‘coma’.

Another former ambassador, Vijay Kant Karna, said that with the tensions growing within the region and among the members, there are fewer hopes that the regional organisaion could see an imminent revival.

He said that the current chair of the organisation – Nepal, as well as Bangladesh, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka are struggling to resolve their internal crisis, there are less hopes that the region would soon make any pragmatic efforts in making the SAARC operational.

As the current chair, Nepal had tried to convene ministerial meetings and discussed the agenda with the regional leaders on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York in 2023 and 2024. But these efforts couldn’t make any progress.

As a result, the region, which has the largest population size and one of the highest poverty rates after Sub-Saharan Africa, is running without any working regional mechanism.

The SAARC Secretariat, based in Kathmandu, is fulfilling the rituals like attending regional and global forums and organising knowledge-sharing events, such as a series of webinars on energy in November and December this year.

The Secretariat has ceased to publish its newsletter on the web since 2020, while no significant event has been shown of late.

However, the SAARC has an impressive network of regional bodies covering business, law, charity, literature and culture and children. The SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) and South Asia Foundation are some of the most active organisations in this regard.

Likewise, there are one-and-a-half dozens SAARC recognised bodies that are headquartered in various cities of the member countries.

Dr. Simkhada said that agreements like the South Asia Free Trade Area (SAFTA), conventions like the Suppression of Terrorism, funds like the SAARC Development Fund, and institutions like the Food Bank, Seed Bank and disaster cooperation deepened the regional cooperation.

These institutions could still spur greater regional consciousness, identity and cooperation, he said. But he said that there have been no sincere efforts from the leaders in the member countries to deepen and integrate the regional cooperation.

According to Karna, the region lacks visionary leaders who could promote multilateralism and promote amicable regional relationships, if not the bilateral ones.

“Members of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) also have bilateral problems, but they haven’t made the regional mechanism hostage to such crises,” he said.

The SAARC like never before is seeking sincere efforts from the members countries. “With sustained endeavours, we will surely be able to realise the region’s fullest potential through effective regional cooperation and integration,” Secretary General of SAARC, Golam Sarwar had said at the 40^th SAARC Charter Day reception held in Kathmandu on 12 December 2024. .

According to him, SAARC is the common identity, inspiration and future of all South Asians.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 7 December 2025.

UNHRC Special Rapporteur Levrat in Kathmandu

Kathmandu, Dec. 5

The Special Rapporteur on minority issues, Nicolas Levrat has been on a visit to Nepal since December 4 to 13, the UN in Nepal informed in a statement on Friday.

During his visit, Levrat will examine legislation, policies and practices affecting people belonging to national or ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities. "He will assess effective political participation, adequate education, access to justice and administration of criminal justice, including hate crimes and hate speeches targeting minorities," read the statement.

Levrat will meet with government officials, as well as representatives of minority groups, civil society organisations, religious leaders, and other actors.

He will begin his visit in Kathmandu and travel across the country, including to the Madhes and the Karnali provinces.

The visit is taking place at the invitation of the government of Nepal.

The Special Rapporteur will present his report to the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in March 2026.

According to the UN, special rapporteurs/independent experts/working groups are independent human rights experts appointed by the UNHRC. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 6 December 2025.

Japanese ambassador Maeda calls on PM

Kathmandu, Dec. 5

Maeda Toru, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Sushila Karki at her office in Singha Durbar on Friday.

He reached the Prime Minister's Office to discuss various matters related to the celebration of the 70th anniversary of Nepal–Japan relations, informed the PMO.

On the occasion, Ambassador Maeda commended the government's commitment to holding elections on time and reiterated that the Government of Japan stands ready to provide any necessary assistance sought by the Nepali government.

Prime Minister Karki expressed gratitude for Japan’s continued support to Nepal’s development and various other sectors, and conveyed her confidence that the cooperation and goodwill between the two countries would continue in the days ahead.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 6 December 2025.

Three Nepali tech companies off to APICTA

Kathmandu, Dec. 4

Three Nepali companies – Crimson Tech, Alpas Technology and AddressGraph – are representing Nepal at the Asia Pacific ICT Alliance Awards (APICTA) 2025 being held in Taiwan, China on 5-8 December.

Nepal Association for Software and IT Services Companies (NAS-IT) informed in a statement on Thursday that they are showcasing Nepal’s innovation, creativity, and technological advancement at the event. The delegation left on Wednesday.

"Three exceptional ICT companies - category winners of ICT Award 2024 - are set to proudly represent Nepal at this prestigious event. Four distinguished individuals, including three judges and the economy coordinator, are also included in the delegation. They will contribute their expertise and leadership to the international judging panel and event coordination," read the statement.

Crimson Tech is showcasing 'AI Machine Vision' at the event while Alpas is presenting 'LMC Alert' and AddressGraph 'Kataho – Digital Address System'.

The APICTA Awards is a globally renowned platform that celebrates technological innovation and excellence across the Asia-Pacific region, bringing together participants from 17 member economies.

Richan Shrestha, Founding President of NAS-IT and CEO of Quickfox Technologies, Deepen Chapagain, Vice President of NAS-IT and Country Director of Logpoint Nepal, and Narayan Koirala, Executive Committee Member of NAS-IT and Managing Director of Eminence Ways are included in the judging panel.
Likewise, Soniya Shrestha, Economy Coordinator for APICTA Awards, is also included in the delegation from Nepal to the awards. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 5 December 2025.

AmCham Nepal to work on attracting US investment in hydropower

Kathmandu, Dec. 4

The American Chamber of Commerce in Nepal (AmCham Nepal) has launched an initiative to attract up to US$10 billion in US private-sector investment in Nepal’s hydropower sector.

It held discussions with the representatives from the US Department of State, US Department of Commerce, US Commercial Service, and the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC on December 1.

AmCham Nepal presented renewable energy potential, cool climate, and abundant water resources as strategic assets for hosting AI data centres and high-performance computing facilities. With more than 92 per cent of Nepal’s hydropower potential still untapped, and full foreign investment permitted in the sector, Nepal is positioning itself as a competitive destination for clean-energy development, it said.

"The meetings focused on expanding two-way trade, strengthening commercial diplomacy, and aligning both nations’ economic priorities in energy, ICT, and emerging technologies including manufacturing and service industries," AmCham Nepal said in a statement on Thursday.

According to it, US counterparts expressed strong interest in Nepal’s potential to support regional energy security while enabling long-term, sustainable investments.

AmCham Nepal and US Chamber of Commerce agreed to host a US-Nepal hydropower investment webinar, conduct a multi-city US investors roadshow and jointly prepare a portfolio of bankable energy projects for American investors.

AmCham Nepal’s Founding Chair Ajit Shah emphasised that both governments must continue working together to address trade barriers, harmonise regulatory practices, and unlock new avenues for two-way trade.

During the meetings, US officials highlighted momentum in Nepal’s reform efforts. Patrick Pitt, Director in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, said that the reforms reflect a strong commitment to improving the ease of doing business and encouraging greater US private-sector engagement.

"Predictable regulations, transparent laws, and consistent implementation are critical for attracting American investors, and Nepal is becoming an increasingly important market for such opportunities. We look forward to seeing Nepal continue creating conditions where US businesses can succeed and contribute to shared prosperity," he said. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 5 December 2025.

Government working to expedite Budhigandaki Project: PM Karki

Kathmandu, Dec. 3

Prime Minister Sushila Karki has said that the government is working to expedite the Budhigandaki Hydropower Project.

According to her, a company has already been established for the construction of the project, and the necessary processes will be advanced to ensure that the revenue collected from the additional tax imposed on petroleum products is deposited into the project’s account every year.

To accelerate the related procedures, she also instructed the Ministries of Energy and Finance.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Karki held discussions on the matter with former PM Dr. Baburam Bhattarai, some former people's representatives from the affected areas of Gorkha and Dhading districts, and local stakeholders.

During the meeting, former PM Bhattarai expressed his satisfaction with the government’s enthusiasm for taking the Budhigandaki Project forward. He suggested that the project should not be limited solely to electricity generation, but should be developed as a multipurpose project by forming a separate authority.

Finance Minister Rameshore Prasad Khanal and other officials from the Prime Minister’s Office also participated in the discussions.

The cost of the 1,200-megawatt hydropower project was estimated at Rs. 255 billion in 2022 which is estimated to exceed Rs. 400 billion now.

The government has already acquired the land required for the project and paid Rs. 42 billion in compensation to local landowners. It is estimated that it will take at least eight years to complete the construction of this project, which lies between major load areas such as Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 4 December 2025.

Minister Sinha underscores risk minimisation in business

Kathmandu, Dec. 3

Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies Anil Kumar Sinha has expressed serious concerns over capital flight and said that risks for business should be minimised to encourage investment within the country.

"Investors want security and good return on investment. But various risks existing within the country have discouraged local investment," he said while addressing a seminar on 'National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (BHR) for responsible business conduct and good governance' organised by the National Business Initiative (NBI) in Kathmandu on Wednesday.

According to him, some investors have said that although they wanted to invest in Nepal, prevailing uncertainty and insecurity had forced them to take the capital out of the country and expand business in other countries.

"Businesses must earn profits. There won't be any business without profit but it should be reasonable and guided by ethics and social responsibility," he said.

Minister Sinha said that although the country has formulated the National Action Plan on BHR, its sincere implementation is challenging.

He stated that it is a national agenda and common responsibility of all to conduct business responsibly with consideration to labourer, society, environment and quality of products.

He appreciated the private sector for its steady contribution to employment and economic growth during various political and natural challenges including the armed conflict, earthquake and COVID-19 pandemic.

"We are putting efforts to create positive and conducive environment not only for election but also for investment and business. I would like to urge the private sector offer donations remaining within rules and ethics," he said.

Stating that BHR is economic and strategic policy, Minister Sinha said, "Where there is lack of good governance and transparency, trust erodes and risk to investment and security increases."

Earlier, the human rights were limited only between the state and its citizens but now it has entered the domain of business. This is the need of time as it guides the business relations with the community, consumer, workers and environment, said the Minister.

President of the NBI Kush Kumar Joshi said that businesses must have rights to run peacefully and must be responsible to the society.

"Prosperity is not possible without peace and without peace prosperity can't be sustained," he said while adding that the recent political turmoil has reinforced that good governance must be promoted everywhere and serious attention should be paid to the demands of the youth.

Joshi said that Private sector has employed more than 5 million people and has moved ahead together with the government during the difficult times including natural disasters but it is yet to earn the respect and prestige

"We want to support the government in the upcoming elections wholeheartedly but we must be protected from the forceful donations and extortions in the name of election and political campaigns," he stated.

Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP in Nepal Julian Chevillard said that currently livelihood and long-term investments are at risk in Nepal. "However, it is encouraging to see the progress on BHR NAP so far especially coinciding with the graduation of Nepal from an LDC to a developing nation," he said.

Chief Commissioner of the National Human Rights Commission Top Bahadur Magar stressed that the rights of all stakeholders must be protected while there should be minimal damage to the environment.

"The state and business both should be proactive to the protection of the right of indigenous communities," he said.

Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MoLESS) Nischal Raj Pandey said that following recent vandalism on businesses, there is a realisation that they should be proactive in risk mitigation rather exhibiting reactive initiatives. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 4 December 2025.

Handicraft expo kicks off

Kathmandu, Dec. 3

A handicraft exhibition, aimed at promoting Nepali art and culture, has kicked off at Patan Durbar Square and the Patan Museum premises in Lalitpur on Wednesday as part of the Art and Cultural Festival 2082.

The event is organised by the Federation of Handicraft Associations of Nepal (FHAN) with support from Lalitpur Metropolitan City (LMC).

The exhibition, coordinated jointly by the FHAN, Handicraft and Tourism Development Committee of LMC Ward No. 16, and Patan Museum, features around 21 pavilion stalls and 10 table stalls displaying a diverse range of Nepali handicraft products.

The event also includes a special display of Buddhist ritual adornments presented by the Ward No. 16 Handicraft Promotion Committee, along with an exhibition of traditional ethnic attire.

Cultural performances have been scheduled throughout the exhibition, including classical music, Charya dance, Ashtamatrika and Kartik dances, various folk dances, and traditional musical segments such as Dha: Baja, Damokhin Baja and Nepal Bhasa folk songs.

Likewise, the FHAN, in collaboration with a Korean organisation IMACO, is hosting an international mask exhibition showcasing 60 masks from Nepal and 40 from South Korea. Three stalls serving traditional Newari cuisine have been set up to cater to visitors and exhibitors.

Bindu Shrestha, Bagmati Province Minister for Industry, Commerce, Land and Administration inaugurated the event that will run until Sunday. It will remain open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The organisers have announced free entry for the general public.

Patan Durbar Square in Lalitpur, recognised by the World Art Council as the Art City’s cultural centre, provides a symbolic and historic setting for the exhibition, said Rabindra Shakya, President of the FHAN.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 4 December 2025.

Japan offers Rs. 31.76 billion loan for Koteshwor Junction Improvement Project

Kathmandu, Dec. 3

A loan agreement for the Koteshwor Junction Improvement Project is signed between the governments of Nepal and Japan.

Japan has provided loan assistance equivalent to 34.59 billion Japanese yen (around Rs. 31.76 billion) for the project. The loan, to be provided through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), will carry a grace period of 10 years, a repayment period of 30 years, and an annual interest rate of 0.2 per cent.

Under this project, an underpass and a flyover will be constructed along the Koteshwor and Jadibuti sections, which is expected to significantly ease the movement of vehicles travelling through Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur and the BP Highway, and help reduce traffic congestion. The project will be implemented through the Department of Roads under the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, the Finance Ministry informed in a statement.

Finance Secretary Dr. Ghanashyam Upadhyay and Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Maeda Toru signed the Exchange of Notes for the loan support in the presence of Finance Minister Rameshore Prasad Khanal at the Ministry of Finance on Wednesday.

Likewise, the loan agreement was signed by Joint Secretary Dr. Dhaniram Sharma, Chief of the International Economic Cooperation Division at the Ministry of Finance, and Mitsuzaki Masuki, Chief Representative of JICA Nepal.

Ambassador Maeda expressed confidence that the implementation of the Koteshwor Junction Improvement Project through Japan’s concessional loan assistance would bring significant improvements to the Kathmandu Valley’s transport system, and also recalled the decades-long friendly relationship between Nepal and Japan.

Likewise, Finance Minister Khanal said, under Nepal–Japan cooperation, this project aims to bring progress to one of the major traffic-congested points in the Kathmandu Valley, and expressed confidence that it would bring long-term improvements to the Capital’s transport management.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 4 December 2025.

Foreign Secretary Rai calls for support for LDC graduation

 Kathmandu, Dec. 3

Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai has called for robust global solidarity and ambitious partnership for smooth, sustained, and irreversible graduation of the Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

Delivering his opening remarks at the High-level Meeting on 'Forging Ambitious Global Partnerships for Sustainable and Resilient Graduation of Least Developed Countries' on Tuesday in Doha of Qatar, he underscored the persistent challenges facing the LDCs.

According to the Embassy of Nepal in Doha, he highlighted deep-rooted structural impediments, limited access to international markets, widening digital divides, resource constraints and increasing climate-related impacts experienced by the LDCs.

He addressed the meeting as the Chair of the Global Coordination Bureau of the group of LDCs.

Likewise, addressing a Ministerial Dialogue on graduation challenges, he highlighted the key areas of agriculture, hydropower, tourism, manufacturing, ICT and human capital that hold immense potential for Nepal's economic transformation despite the challenging global development landscape.

He expressed Nepal's keen interest to working closely with development partners, the United Nations systems, and the international community for sustained graduation.

The same day, the Foreign Secretary visited the Embassy of Nepal in Doha and instructed the officials to protect and promote Nepal's national interest and make every possible effort to deliver best services to Nepali migrant workers living in Qatar.

Foreign Secretary Rai is in a three-day visit to Doha to participate in High-level Meeting jointly organised by Qatar and the UN Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island States (UN-OHRLLS).

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 4 December 2025.

Pak Ambassador visits Lumbini

Kathmandu, Dec. 3

Ambassador of Pakistan to Nepal Abrar H. Hashmi visited Lumbini and held meetings with the Lumbini Development Trust (LDT) and Lumbini Municipality and discussed fostering heritage linkages, cultural and civic relations between Pakistan and Nepal.

He reached the Birthplace of Lord Buddha on Tuesday and paid respects, the Embassy of Pakistan in Kathmandu informed in a statement on Wednesday.

Following his Lumbini visit, Ambassador Hashmi reached Bharatpur Eye Hospital (BEH) in Chitwan and handed over a cheque to support the paperless digitisation in the hospital.

"The support aims to assist BEH to upgrade its infrastructure and efficiency through Electronic Health Record (EHR) system, and fully digitize administrative and clinical processes," said the Embassy.

Ambassador Hashmi noted that Pakistan has a proud history of collaboration with the hospital contributing to its development and capacity building over the years since it was built with the financial help of the BCCI Foundation of Pakistan in 1987.

In recent years, Pakistan Embassy has added pharmacy, OTs, outreach ambulance and exchanges in the field of eye care and medical cooperation.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Hashmi said that healthcare cooperation remains an important pillar of Pakistan-Nepal relations and such initiatives reflect the shared commitment of the two countries toward people-centric development and regional well-being.

Chairman of BEH Management Board Jayram Shrestha and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Pushpa Giri expressed their appreciation for the People of Pakistan for their continued support and contribution to the modernisation of healthcare services.

Ambassador Hashmi also visited College of Medical Sciences, Chitwan.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 4 December 2025.

EU pledges post-graduation support to Nepal

Kathmandu, Nov. 29

The European Union (EU) has welcomed Nepal's Transition Strategy to graduate from LDC status to 'developing nation' and expressed commitment to continue cooperation through the Multi-Annual Indicative Programme (MIP).

The MIP is a seven-year plan that will last till 2027, and incorporates the EU's development cooperation priorities and funding for a specific partner country. It guides the EU's financial and technical assistance, often matching its policy priorities such as Green Deal and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with the need of the partner country.

Since it incorporates economic growth and sustainable development alongside the promotion of democracy and human rights, it is likely to help in Nepal's transition period after LDC graduation.

During the 16^th meeting of the Joint Commission (JC) in Brussels on Friday, the EU and Nepal reviewed the progress of EU's development cooperation in various sectors where the former assured of its support to Nepal, the Embassy of Nepal in Brussels informed in a statement on Saturday.

On the occasion, Nepal appreciated and welcomed the MIP for aligning with Nepal's plans and priorities.

The meeting also discussed criteria for acceding to the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) that is considered as a support to Nepal in the post-graduation scenario. This special trade arrangement provides developing countries with duty-free access to the European market for over 7,200 products.

The meeting was co-chaired by Paola Pampaloni, Acting Managing Director for Asia and the Pacific of the European External Affairs Service of the EU and Foreign Secretary of Nepal Amrit Bahadur Rai.

The EU and Nepal reiterated their commitment to work together in upholding democracy and human rights, promoting good governance, realising SDGs, combating disaster risks, promoting investment, and addressing global challenges such as climate change.

"The EU welcomed Nepal's commitment to restoring stability and democracy and the work of the interim government under the leadership of Prime Minister Sushila Karki, including reforms centred on fiscal discipline, good governance, accountability and improved service delivery," read the statement.

Likewise, the EU expressed appreciation for Nepal's position on Ukraine in line with the objectives and principles of the UN Charter.

The EU and Nepal also took stock of the impact of climate change and latest developments, including at COP-30.

Nepal underlined that air safety remains a key priority area and reasserted their commitment to address all observations made by the EU's assessment visit in September 2023. The EU took note of the request of Nepal to delist Nepali airlines from the European Union Air Safety List in recognition of the progress made by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 30 November 2025.