Tourism foundation of development: Dr. Rana

Kathmandu, Apr. 14

Foreign Minister Dr. Rana said that tourism is the cornerstone of Nepal's development and prosperity.

“Nepal’s unique culture, heritage, and natural beauty are major attractions for the world, and these priceless assets are also the basis for the nation’s development and prosperity,” she said.

FM Dr. Rana praised Nepal’s cultural and ecological diversity, scenic landscapes, lush greenery, biodiversity, heritage sites, and majestic Himalayan ranges. Highlighting the significance of the Ilam, she described it as a land of expansive tea gardens, mist-covered hills, and warm-hearted people. She encouraged everyone to experience Ilam's tea, pure air, traditional lifestyle, and unique way of living.

She further urged the attending diplomats to act as "ambassadors of Nepali tourism" upon their return. “I kindly request that when you return to your respective countries, you take with you beautiful stories of Ilam and Nepal, and help promote them as much as possible,” she said.

Dr. Rana also discussed the strong potential for foreign investment in Nepal, particularly in the sectors of tourism and infrastructure, and invited the global community to invest in these areas.

 

‘Trend of making reckless statements to go viral on social media’

Meanwhile, FM Rana who is also a central member of the Nepali Congress, said that a concerning trend of making reckless statements to go viral and blaming one another has been growing within the party.

Addressing an interaction programme with senior party members organised by the Nepali Congress District Committee Ilam in Shree Antu on Monday, she expressed concern over the increasing tendency among party members to speak irresponsibly in pursuit of media attention.

“It seems that some leaders are willing to speak even against the party itself just to get media coverage. While such remarks might make a person go viral, one must also consider the damage it can cause to the party,” said leader Dr. Rana.

She shared her experience, noting that such tendencies among leaders have caused disillusionment among grassroots members as well as those at the central level.

Highlighting a paradox, she said that although the NC is currently part of the government, she often hears the leaders from within the party criticise the government the most.

“We must ensure that our party becomes stronger in the next election. Other parties are moving forward with their 'Mission 2084' agenda, yet we seem more focused on internal disputes rather than uniting our party workers across the country,” said Dr. Rana.

She encouraged party members to voice their disagreements and concerns within internal forums rather than making public statements. She clarified that public complaints or dissatisfaction should be channelled through proper party discussions.

Minister Rana also highlighted the significant contribution of women to the NC and underscored the need for proportional representation of women within the party.

“It’s never easy for women to rise within political parties. Despite having done nothing wrong, I was subjected to various attacks and criticisms, which many of you witnessed,” she said.

According to her, women must take an active role if they are to have a powerful presence in the party.

On the occasion, she also pledged to make every possible effort for the broader development interests of Ilam district. She gave this assurance after NC Koshi Province President Uddhav Thapa and Ilam District President Dambar Khadka expressed hopes for greater support from the federal government for Ilam’s development.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 15 April 2025.