Nepal, Saudi Arabia to sign air connectivity agreement soon: Ambassador Mnikhr

Kathmandu, Aug. 27

Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Nepal Fahd bin Mohammed bin Mnikhr said that an air services agreement was expected to be signed soon to expand direct air connectivity between Nepal and Saudi Arabia.

In a meeting with President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) Anjan Shrestha in Kathmandu, he expressed confidence on Thursday that improved air connectivity would help further expand tourism, trade, investment and people-to-people relations between the two countries.

According to Mnikhr, Saudi Arabia was interested in further expanding its economic relations with Nepal, the FNCCI informed in a statement.

He expressed interest in the potential for Saudi investment and cooperation in sectors such as hydropower and tourism in Nepal, and said he would take necessary initiatives to make bilateral economic relations more dynamic.

FNCCI said that the meeting discussed further strengthening Nepal–Saudi economic relations and expanding cooperation in trade, investment, tourism and energy.

President Shrestha and Ambassador Mnikhr discussed expanding Nepal–Saudi trade and investment cooperation, strengthening relations between the private sectors of the two countries, and identifying and pursuing new economic opportunities.

Shrestha stressed the need to translate Nepal’s foreign relations into economic opportunities. He said economic diplomacy should deliver tangible results by opening new markets for Nepali businesses, attracting foreign investment, promoting tourism and connecting Nepali products with international markets.

Stating that Nepal should make use of the potential to export electricity and information technology services alongside traditional goods, Shrestha said Nepali products such as tea, coffee, herbs and handicrafts could be exported to Saudi Arabia.

He also urged the ambassador to take the necessary initiative with the Saudi Chambers to increase cooperation between Saudi businesses and Nepali businesses, including business-to-business (B2B) collaboration.

In response, Ambassador Mnikhr pledged to provide support from his side to strengthen both government-to-government (G2G) and B2B relations between the two countries.

Published in The Rising Nepal on 28 August 2026.   

Saudi envoy calls on Minister Khanal

Kathmandu, Aug. 20

Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Nepal Fahd Mohammad A. Mnikhr paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal where they discussed bilateral high-level visits and the safety and welfare of Nepali workers.

In the meeting held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in Singha Durbar, the two sides also talked about the bilateral relations and various matters of mutual interest.

"Both sides recalled the significance of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Saudi Arabia and stressed the need to continue high-level visits and exchanges to further strengthen bilateral ties," FM Khanal's secretariat informed in a statement.

FM Khanal said high-level visits between the two countries would provide further momentum to bilateral relations and contribute to expanding cooperation in various areas of mutual interest. “We should continue high-level visits and dialogue between the two countries and further expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest,” he said.

The Minister thanked Saudi Arabia for the security and protective measures it had adopted to ensure the safety and protection of its citizens and Nepali workers living in Saudi Arabia during the recent regional conflict. He also expressed concern over reports that some Nepali workers employed in Saudi Arabia had not received fair remuneration for the work they had performed, and urged the Saudi side to pay due attention to such issues.

Minister Khanal also appreciated the support provided by Saudi authorities in repatriating the bodies of Nepali citizens who have died in Saudi Arabia.

They also discussed expanding cooperation in political consultations, investment, tourism, air connectivity, labour mobility and the welfare of Nepali workers in Saudi Arabia.

“Nepal is keen to expand cooperation with Saudi Arabia not only in political and diplomatic relations but also in investment, tourism, air connectivity, labour and other economic sectors. It is now necessary to transform the existing friendly relations between the two countries into a more results-oriented partnership,” Minister Khanal said.

Nepal and Saudi Arabia established diplomatic relations on 15 March 1977.

Published in The Rising Nepal on 21 August 2026.   

FEEN, NRN Club push Nepali goods

Kathmandu, Aug. 8

Export Entrepreneurs Federation of Nepal (EEFN) and the Non-Resident Nepali Social Club, Oman signed a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote and expand Nepali products and services in the market of Oman.

During a programme organised in Muscat on Friday, President of FEEN Govinda Prasad Ghimire, and President of the Club Suresh Khadka signed the MoU.

According to the agreement, both organisations will act as institutional intermediaries to connect Nepali exporters with local small and medium entrepreneurs, traders, and potential buyers in Oman. Kiran Kumar Dangol, Vice President of EEFN, stated that this would expand new markets and business networks for Nepali products.

Chargé d'Affaires at the Embassy of Nepal in Oman, Bishesh Kumar Sah, was also present at the event.

The agreement prioritises the promotion of 'Made in Nepal' products. Stalls and exhibitions will be arranged to promote Nepali products—such as Nepali tea, coffee, cardamom, various spices, handicrafts, felt, garments, carpets, herbal products, and traditional attire—during cultural and community events organised in Oman.

Similarly, it is mentioned that the Club will provide the Federation with necessary information and guidance regarding Oman's customs procedures, import standards, quality and Halal certification, and trade policies.

Meanwhile, it has been agreed that the Federation will provide Omani importers with a list of reliable exporters in Nepal and details of the goods they produce.

The MoU also aims to expand direct contact between Nepali producers and Nepali entrepreneurs and importers based in Oman, thereby reducing unnecessary middleman costs. Ghimire expressed his expectation that this would enhance the competitiveness of Nepali products and ensure that producers receive a fair market price for their goods.

The agreement also encompasses encouraging Non-Resident Nepalis and Omani investors to invest in Nepal's processing, manufacturing, and export-oriented industries, as well as providing them with the necessary guidance. 

  Published in The Rising Nepal on 9 August 2026. 

ZamZam Perfumes to open outlet in Nepal

Kathmandu, Aug. 7

ZamZam Perfumes, the renowned Dubai-based fragrance brand, is set to open its first official outlet in Nepal.

The company announced at a press meet on Friday that its authorised outlet will begin operations at Civil Mall, Sundhara, Kathmandu, from Saturday.

The event will be attended by the popular social media personalities ZamZam Brothers, who arrived in Kathmandu on Friday for the launch of their product. The brand has been introduced to the Nepali market by ZamZam Perfumes Nepal Pvt. Ltd.

"With the official arrival of ZamZam Perfumes in Nepal, consumers will now be able to purchase genuine luxury fragrances from Dubai through the brand's authorised retail outlet as well as its online store," said Roshan Sigdel, Director of the company.

According to him, the company aims to offer Nepali customers a trusted, high-quality fragrance experience that meets international standards.

ZamZam Perfumes currently operates 24 outlets across Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Kuwait and Oman. The Nepal outlet will become the company's 25th international branch.

As part of its ongoing global expansion strategy, ZamZam Perfumes also plans to establish new outlets in Qatar, the United Kingdom, the United States, Spain and Malaysia.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 8 August 2026. 

FM Khanal telephones Saudi Prince Faisal

Kathmandu, May 20

Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal held a telephone conversation with his Saudi Arabian counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud on Wednesday and reaffirmed Nepal’s solidarity with Saudi Arabia during this challenging period.

FM Khanal also expressed his appreciation from the government of Saudi Arabia for ensuring the safety and security of Nepali nationals amid the ongoing conflict in the region, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) wrote on X.

"The two Ministers discussed the longstanding bilateral relations between Nepal and Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed their shared commitment to further strengthening cooperation at both bilateral and multilateral levels," read the post.

They also discussed avenues for enhancing collaboration in trade, investment and other areas of mutual interest, including the promotion of Saudi private sector investment in Nepal, as the two countries prepare to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 21 May 2026.

30,000 Nepalis return home from West Asia after Iran-Israel war

MoFA begins preparation for PM Shah's India visit

 

Kathmandu, Apr. 24

More than 30,000 Nepali nationals have returned home from West Asian countries following the outbreak of conflict in the region. The entire region is in turmoil following a war break out between Israel-USA and Iran.

Ramkaji Khadka, Joint Secretary and chief of the Central Asia, West Asia and Africa Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), said at a press briefing on Friday that 21,000 Nepalis returned from Qatar alone.

However, the government doesn't know whether these people returned due to the prevailing situation or on their regular leave and vacation.

A total of 87,819 individuals from the region have so far registered their status through an online portal launched by the MoFA’s consular services department following the conflict. Foreign workers in hotels and tourism sector in the West Asian countries have been highly affected as the conflict has drastically reduced the number of tourists visiting the region.

But the MoFA has not received any compliant from Nepalis working in hospitality industry there. More than 1.72 million Nepalis are working in the West Asian nations. The Ministry is soliciting updates from Nepali missions in Tel Aviv, Doha, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, Manama, Kuwait City, Muscat, Cairo and Jeddah, along with the Consulate General in Dubai.

The government has also resumed issuing labour permits and re-entry permits for foreign employment abroad, which had been suspended in view of the security situation in West Asia. The Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security reopened approvals for all destinations following a recommendation from the MoFA, informed Khadka.

Meanwhile, efforts are under way to secure the release of Nepali national Amrit Jha, who was detained along with a vessel in Iran’s Hormuz area during the conflict. The ministry said he is expected to be released soon.

Spokesperson of the Foreign Ministry Lok Bahadur Paudel Chhetri said that of the 10 Nepali nationals currently in Iran for work, two are preparing to return home, while the remaining eight have reported that they feel safe and are staying in the country.

"We have requested them to return to Nepal," said Chhetri, "The government remains serious about the evolving situation in West Asia and the safety of Nepali nationals in the region."

Chhetri also said that an invitation has been received from the Government of India for a visit by Prime Minister Balendra Shah, and initial preparations are under way.

Earlier, during his visit to Mauritius to participate at the Indian Ocean Conference (10-12 April), Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal had informed journalist that PM Shah was visiting India soon.

Meanwhile, 612 Nepali nationals stranded in online scam centres in Southeast Asian countries have been rescued. Among them, 487 were rescued from Cambodia, 111 from Myanmar, eight from Laos and six from Thailand. Arrangements are being made to repatriate an additional 53 individuals after issuing travel documents.

Fourteen Nepalis have been arrested in Cambodia, including five on charges of organised fraud and nine on other offences.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 25 April 2026.         

PM Karki talks to Qatari Foreign Minister Al-Thani

Al-Thani pledges full security to Nepalis

 

Kathmandu, Mar. 5

Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani has assured that his government would provide them with security and protection equal to that of Qatari citizens in the present circumstances.

In a telephone conversation with Nepal's Prime Minister Sushila Karki on Thursday afternoon, he praised the friendly relations between Nepal and Qatar and noted the significant contribution made by Nepali citizens in Qatar.

Describing the current situation as unfortunate, he stated that his country was acting solely to safeguard its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and self-defence. He added that Qatar has always been a champion of peace and therefore opposes such acts.

After the war broke between Israel-USA and Iran, the latter has hit a few targets in Qatar, primarily the US military base.

PM Al-Thani also thanked Nepal for the friendship and solidarity it has shown during this difficult time. Expressing hope that the situation would soon come to an end, he stressed the importance of further strengthening and expanding bilateral relations between the two countries as before.

Prime Minister Karki expressed concern over the recent developments in the West Asia region.

She thanked the Government of Qatar for the security and protection provided to the approximately 360,000 Nepali citizens residing in Qatar, informed the Prime Minister's Office in a statement.

“At present, nearly 360,000 Nepali citizens are living and working in Qatar. I am extremely pleased to hear that they are safe and well cared for," she said.

Stating that Nepal has been closely observing the developments in West Asia, Prime Minister Karki noted that Nepal believes all concerned parties should exercise restraint, avoid further escalation of conflict, and ensure the safety of civilians.

She emphasised that all nations must duly respect and adhere to the Charter of the United Nations, international law, the Geneva Conventions, and humanitarian law.

"War cannot be an alternative to peace under any circumstances. Lasting peace can only be ensured through dialogue and diplomacy," said PM Karki.

She also expressed confidence that relations between the two countries would become even stronger in the coming days through high-level exchanges of visits, economic and cultural cooperation, and people-to-people ties.

During the telephone conversation, Prime Minister Karki expressed solidarity with Qatar regarding the current situation and conveyed deep concern over attacks carried out on Qatari sovereign territory, particularly in non-military areas. She also expressed confidence that Qatar would be capable of addressing the current situation with a constructive role.

 

Data collection in progress

Meanwhile, the embassies of Nepal in the West Asia have requested again the Nepali citizens who are stranded in their concerned countries to update their situation.

"Nepali citizens who are currently stranded in the UAE due to the present situation while returning to Nepal or travelling to a third country, as well as those facing difficulties returning to Nepal after their company visas were cancelled, register on the Department of Consular Services (Kathmandu) portal, as notified," the Embassy of Nepal in Abu Dhabi of the UAE requested on Wednesday evening.

According to it, students on tourist/visit visas, those in transit, individuals with expired visas, and those wishing to return to Nepal immediately are requested to provide their details at the earliest.

The government has already formed a Emergency Response Team to respond to the emerging situation due to the war in West Asia. Likewise, the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) expressed its readiness to support the government in rescue, relief and repatriation of Nepali citizens in the Gulf region.

NRNA President Dr. Badri KC said that, if necessary, the association stands ready to take immediate initiatives—through the mechanisms of the government as well as its own network—for the rescue, safe relocation and necessary relief management of Nepali citizens in the West Asia.

Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Office at the Tribhuvan International Airport informed that a few airlines will operate specific flight from some airports in West Asia to Nepal and back to the same airports for transit passengers who are travelling to Nepal via third countries but stranded there. However, they will not conduct onward connecting or transit flights.

The office requested the passengers travelling to West Asian countries, or travelling to third countries via transit from those countries, to coordinate with the respective airlines and arrive at the airport only after their booking is confirmed.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 6 March 2026.      

Dhakal holds meeting with UAE Under-secretary

Kathmandu, Jan. 7

President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) Chandra Prasad Dhakal held a meeting with Abdulla Ahmed Al Saleh, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy of Dubai, the United Arab Emirates.

During the meeting held on Wednesday in Kathmandu, the two sides discussed expanding trade and investment cooperation, with emphasis on attracting the UAE investments in key sectors of Nepal’s economy, including hydropower, tourism, agro-processing, large-scale infrastructure projects, and the information technology sector.

Dhakal highlighted Nepal’s growing potential and the opportunities available for the UAE investors, the FNCCI informed in a statement.  

"The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to further deepen economic collaboration and strengthen partnership between Nepal and the UAE in the days ahead," read the statement. Nepal’s Ambassador to the UAE, Tej Bahadur Chhetri, was also present on the occasion.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 January 2026. 

Developing countries in need of financial, technical assistance: President Paudel

Kathmandu, Nov. 4

President Ramchandra Paudel has said that developing countries, in particular, require not only financial resources but also technical knowledge and skills, and that advanced-level support based on unity, justice, and shared responsibility is essential for their progress.

Addressing the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar, on Tuesday, he said, "Particularly developing countries need not only resources but also technological know-how. We need enhanced level of support grounded in solidarity, fairness, and shared responsibility."

President Paudel is leading the Nepali delegation to the Summit, which began in the Qatari capital on Tuesday, at the invitation of the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

He also added that a just global trading system, fulfilled ODA commitments, climate finance, technology transfer, and increased investment are also vital, according to his statement shared to media by his Media Advisor Kiran Pokharel.

President Paudel emphasised that ensuring access to quality education, healthcare, and social security for all remains a top priority for Nepal. He noted that inclusiveness, justice, and social protection have been regarded as the fundamental pillars of social development in Nepal.

He stated that since 1995, poverty has been reduced by half, Nepal’s progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has surpassed the global average, and more than 95 per cent of Nepalis now have access to clean energy. “Gender equality has improved across in all sectors, maternal and child mortality rates have declined significantly, and around 90 social security programmes currently benefit our elderly, women, children, and persons with disabilities. Our Constitution ensures representation of women, Dalits, indigenous peoples, and other marginalised groups,” he added.

Referring to the youth-led movements for good governance seen in many countries, President Paudel said that Nepal had also witnessed a Gen Z movement in September this year. Stating that the current government had guided the country towards stability by announcing general elections for March 5 next year.

 "By ensuring the safe landing of the country and safeguarding the Constitution and democratic system, we have announced the election of members of the House of Representatives on 5 March 2026. We believe that this election will provide political solutions for Nepal and pave the way for good governance, development and prosperity," he said.

President Paudel remarked that what is done today will shape the future. “History has taught us that inclusivity and shared prosperity are the foundations of lasting peace, progress, and human dignity. What we do today will determine the future; therefore, let us design a future that ensures social and economic development for all,” he stated.

Although Nepal’s contribution to global carbon emissions is minimal, the President said the country is suffering from the worst impacts of climate change. “We are in no way responsible for this, yet the disproportionate effects of climate change have hindered Nepal’s socio-economic development journey. In this context, global solidarity, support, and cooperation play a vital role in advancing the development efforts of nations,” he said.

Similarly, President Paudel stressed that the summit would be meaningful only when the international community takes concrete action to support developing countries, particularly Least Developed Countries (LDCs), in their development endeavours.

Guterres pays courtesy callEarlier, on Tuesday, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres paid a courtesy call on President Paudel.

During the meeting, President Paudel commended the Secretary-General’s efforts in implementing the Copenhagen Commitments and accelerating social development. He reiterated Nepal’s readiness to work closely with the United Nations to achieve shared goals of peace, social justice, and sustainable development, the Office of the President informed in a statement.

Referring to Secretary-General Guterres’s visit to the Everest Base Camp in 2023 October, he said that Nepal's white mountains are turning black which is a warning that rapid glacial melting threatens the ecosystem and the livelihoods of millions in downstream regions.

President Paudel also acknowledged Nepal’s ongoing contribution to UN peacekeeping missions, noting that this reflects Nepal’s strong commitment to global peace and security, read the statement.

Secretary-General Guterres said the United Nations was working to mobilise support from developed countries to assist vulnerable nations like Nepal in climate adaptation and was committed to reducing global carbon emissions.

He praised Nepal’s progress in promoting human rights and expressed confidence that Nepal’s institutions were capable of addressing their internal challenges independently.

The President is accompanied by his spouse, Sabita Paudel. The delegation also includes his Communication Expert, Kiran Kumar Pokharel, the Secretary of the Office of the President, and other senior government officials.

President Paudel and his delegation will return to Nepal on Thursday, November 6. 

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 5 November 2025.     

Asia-Gulf dialogue on safe migration concludes

 Kathmandu, June 26

The Asia-GCC dialogue on implementation of the global compact for safe, orderly and regular migration (GCM) served as a preparatory platform for the 2026 International Migration Review Forum (IMRF), where global progress on migration commitments will be assessed, the organisers said.

Policy recommendations from the two-day dialogue that concluded on Thursday are said to contribute to the 2026 review. The event was co-hosted by Nepal's Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MoLESS) and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).

The GCM provides a practical roadmap for aligning migration governance with national development priorities and global commitments under the 2030 Agenda, they said. Both the Government of Nepal and IOM reaffirmed their strong partnership in supporting safe, rights-based, and well-managed migration.

Representatives from Asian and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states have convened in Kathmandu to discuss initiatives aimed at promoting regular and safe migration pathways.

The Asia-GCC corridor is a crucial global labour migration route, supporting economies in both regions, with over 25 million Asian migrants living and working in GCC countries. The dialogue underscored the importance of strengthening these pathways to protect migrant rights and leverage their skills for broader societal benefits, read a statement issued by the organisers.

Minister for Labour, Employment and Social Security, Sarat Singh Bhandari, highlighted Nepal's role as a champion country in GCM implementation and its commitment to translating the compact's principles into actionable outcomes.

The conference discussed key GCM objectives, including developing regular migration pathways, promoting fair recruitment and decent work, advancing skills development and recognition, and enhancing migrant welfare and access to social protection.

Stuart Simpson, Deputy Regional Director for Operations, IOM Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, expressed hope that the event would facilitate in sharing of best practices to strengthen labour governance and address ongoing issues between the regions. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 27 June 2025. 

Nepal, Saudi Arabia reach labour recruitment deal

Kathmandu, June 10

Nepal and Saudi Arabia have reached a significant agreement regarding the recruitment of Nepali workers.

This breakthrough came during a bilateral meeting between Nepal's Minister for Labour, Employment, and Social Security, Sharat Singh Bhandari, and Saudi Arabia's Deputy Minister for International Affairs, Tariq Al-Hamad, held in Geneva on Monday.

The meeting was held at the sidelines of 113^th International Labour Conference, organised by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Geneva. Minister Bhandari is leading Nepali delegation to the Conference.

According to Minister Bhandari's secretariat, he said that Saudi Arabia is prepared to immediately sign two agreements: one for general and skilled workers, and another concerning a skill verification programme, setting aside the agreement for domestic workers for now.

Nepal has already agreed to the draft of the general labour agreement with Saudi Arabia, read a statement from the Minister's secretariat.

"An agreement on recruiting general workers with Saudi Arabia was reached previously; only the signing remains," Minister bhandari said.

According to him, Saudi Arabia had insisted that the general agreement could only be signed after the domestic worker agreement was in place. However, this recent meeting has decided to proceed with the already agreed-upon general agreement and to do further homework on the draft of the domestic worker agreement.

He informed the Saudi delegation about the Nepali parliamentary committee's directive, which mandates that the domestic worker agreement should only be signed after the main labour agreement between the two countries. He also conveyed that a pilot project would be necessary for this.

Likewise, Minister Bhandari highlighted that the Geneva meeting has paved the way for signing the general labour agreement and the skill verification programme with Saudi Arabia.

Nepal has formally sent its agreement to the draft of the general agreement provided by Saudi Arabia through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This draft incorporates workers' rights, occupational health and safety, employer changes, and fair recruitment practices, all in accordance with International Labour Organisation standards.

Meanwhile, Minister Bhandari held bilateral meetings with International Organization for Migration Director General Amy Pope, and Head of the Labour Directorate at the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) Jérôme Cosandy on Tuesday.

The Permanent Mission of Nepal to the United Nations in Geneva said in a statement that the Minister shared the vision for creating, managing and regulating decent jobs within Nepal in the Decade of Internal Employment Promotion 2025-2035. HE called for the collective action towards promoting human-centric employment.

 

FNCCI President holds talks

Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) President, Chandra Prasad Dhakal, discussed investment expansion and market access for smaller economies like Nepal, especially in the evolving economic landscape with various stakeholders at the sidelines of the conference.

He met with Roberto Suárez Santos, Secretary-General of the International Organisation of Employers (IOE), and Zhang Xiangchen, Deputy Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

In the meetings with them, Dhakal shared his perspectives on investment opportunities within Nepal, potential collaborations with both organisations, and Nepal's expectations, the FNCCI informed in a statement.

He highlighted the urgent need for investment to overcome Nepal's development challenges. He expressed the view that strengthening engagement with international partners and facilitating the exchange of best practices could significantly benefit Nepal.

Likewise, Dhakal urged Secretary-General Santos to help disseminate the message globally that Nepal offers significant investment opportunities in sectors like tourism, hydropower, and information and communication technology.

Similarly, in the meeting with Xiangchen, Dhakal welcomed the WTO's decision to maintain duty-free and quota-free access for Nepal during the interim period, in light of its process to graduate from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category by 2026.

However, he specifically requested the WTO to provide technical assistance, technology, knowledge, and resources to enable Nepal to meet international standards. He also asked for flexibility in implementing treaties.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 11 June 2025. 

DPM Al Nahyan pledges stronger UAE-Nepal trade ties

Kathmandu, Apr. 23

Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expressed his commitment to encouraging UAE businesses to expand trade and investment in Nepal’s tourism, energy, and agriculture sectors.

During a courtesy meeting to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers at the Singha Durbar, DPM Al Nahyan also conveyed the UAE’s willingness to enter into a free trade agreement with Nepal.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office, two leaders discussed various aspects of the friendly bilateral relationship between the two countries, as well as matters related to trade and investment.

Prime Minister Oli, while praising the UAE’s rapid progress on the path of development, urged for increased investment in Nepal, particularly in the fields of hydropower, green energy, and hydro energy.

Meanwhile, DPM Al Nahyan paid a courtesy call to President Ramchandra Paudel at the President's Office, Sheetal Niwas on Wednesday.  

They discussed the existing bilateral relations between Nepal and the UAE, as well as topics of mutual interest and concern, a statement from the President's Office informed.

President Paudel acknowledged the UAE's long-standing and significant role as a reliable partner in Nepal's socio-economic development. He expressed his confidence that the areas of cooperation between the two nations would continue to expand in the coming days.

Al Nahyan was in Nepal for a two-day visit that concluded on Wednesday.

His delegation included Ahmed Ali Mohamed Al Sayegh, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Saeed Mubarak Rashed Alhajeri, Assistant Minister for Economic and Trade Affairs, Abdulla Balalaa, Assistant Minister for Energy and Sustainability Affairs, Abdulla Jarwan Alshamsi, Ambassador of the UAE to Nepal and other senior officials of the Government of the UAE.

He was welcomed upon his arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport by Sharat Singh Bhandari, Minister for Labour, Employment and Social Security joined by Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai and other senior officials of the Ministry, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) of Nepal said in a statement on Tuesday. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 April 2025.        

Qatari investors eager to invest in Nepal

Kathmandu, Oct. 3

Qatari investors are looking for investment opportunities in Nepal especially in the areas of Information Technology, pharmaceutical industry, banking and financial services, hydropower and tourism, the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) informed on Thursday.

"Investors here are looking for investment opportunities in Nepal. We will encourage more investors," said Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al-Thani, Chairman of the Qatar Chamber of Commerce, at the first meeting of the Nepal-Qatar Business Council held in Doha on Wednesday.

The meeting between Chairman Thani and a delegation of the FNCCI led by its President Chandra Prasad Dhakal discussed issues related to expanding economic relations between the two countries.

During the state visit of Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani to Nepal on April 23 and 24 this year, an agreement was signed to establish a Business Council between the FNCCI and the Qatar Chamber.

In the first-ever meeting at the chairman level of the Council, FNCCI President Dhakal and Qatar Chamber Chairman Thani agreed to appoint members under their respective leadership to complete the Council soon. Dhakal also proposed organising a Qatar-Nepal Business Summit in Nepal. There was an agreement in the meeting to organise the programme next year, read the statement.

During the meeting, FNCCI President Dhakal stated that Nepal has external sector stability and that the reforms made in the laws have created investment opportunities. He also invited Qatari investors to invest in hydropower, tourism, information technology, and skill development in Nepal, where there are ample opportunities. Similarly, Dhakal also participated as a representative of the private sector of Nepal in the Asian Cooperation Dialogue organised by the Qatari government.                                       

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 4 October 2024. 

Oman expresses interest to invest in Nepal's tourism

Kathmandu, Aug. 27

Oman has expressed its willingness to invest in the tourism sector in Nepal.

During the meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Nepal, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, her Omani counterpart, Sayyid Badr Hamad Al Busaidi, has given a positive indication about investing in the field of tourism in Nepal, Dr. Rana informed journalists after the bilateral meeting.

Stating that Nepal's natural beauty and heritage can attract many Omani tourists, Dr. Rana proposed exploring joint possibilities including facilitating Omani tourists and investment in the tourism sector.

"Preparations will be made for an agreement between the two countries in the areas of labour, health, tourism and foreign affairs," she said.

FM Dr. Rana, through FM Al Busaidi, requested the Omani government and private sector to invest in Nepal as there were many business opportunities in many areas, including hydropower.

The bilateral meeting between the two foreign ministers discussed air connectivity, labour related issues, investment, tourism, diplomatic exchange and all necessary forms of cooperation and coordination between the two countries.

Foreign Secretary Sewa Lamsal, Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Ganesh Prasad Pandey, Nepali Ambassador to Oman Dornath Aryal and Omani officials led by the Foreign Minister of Oman participated in the talks, informed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) of Nepal.

Al Busaidi was on a two-day official visit to Nepal at the invitation of FM Dr. Rana.

During the talks, Foreign Minister Dr. Rana requested Oman to operate air flights at Nepal's international airports in Bhairawa and Pokhara. Earlier, Oman had started air flights to Bhairahawa and stopped them after a while.

But as the Government of Nepal has decided to provide more facilities to foreign airlines conducting flight operations to and from those two airports, FM Dr. Rana requested for the reoperation of flight service.

In response, FM Al Busaidi said that he would reconsider this matter.

Likewise, Nepal raised the issue of the rights and interests of Nepali workers and additional labour destinations. "The Nepali side raised this issue saying that Oman can be a good destination for the Nepali workers as the labour laws and working environment is good there," said the MoFA.

The Omani side praised Nepali workers for their diligence and honesty in their work and assured them that their country would take more Nepali workers based on their needs. It was agreed that a labour agreement would be signed between the two countries on this issue.

Al Busaidi concluded his visit to Nepal on Tuesday and returned to Oman on the same day.

 

Al Busaidi calls on  President, PM

 Kathmandu, Aug. 27

The Foreign Minister of Oman, Sayyid Badr Hamad Al Busaidi paid a courtesy call to President of Nepal Ramchandra Paudel on Tuesday at the Office of the President in Maharajgunj.

On the occasion, bilateral relations between Nepal and Oman, mutual interests and concerns were discussed, the Office of the President informed in a statement.

The President said that Nepal and Oman have been cooperating in multilateral and regional forums including the United Nations, Non-Aligned Movement and Asian Cooperation Dialogue on matters of mutual interest and concerns, and expressed his belief that such cooperation will continue in the future.

FM Al Busaidi also called on Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar where the two talked about the issues of bilateral interests.

Prime Minister's Chief Advisor Bishnu Prasad Rimal, Foreign Secretary Sewa Lamsal and other high government officials were present on the occasion, informed the Prime Minister's Office.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 28 August 2024.        

Omani FM arriving today

Kathmandu, Aug. 25

Minister for Foreign Affairs of Oman, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Bin Hamood Albusaidi is arriving in Kathmandu on a two-day official visit to Nepal on Monday.

He is making this entourage at the invitation of Nepal's Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) of Nepal, the two foreign ministers will hold bilateral meeting and discuss various matters on further strengthening Nepal-Oman relations.

FM Albusaidi is also scheduled to pay courtesy calls to President Ramchandra Paudel and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.

He will leave Kathmandu on Tuesday, August 27. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 26 August 2024.        

Ajaya diamond partners with Al Ali

Kathmandu, Feb. 6

International diamond brand of Ajaya has entered into a commercial partnership with the renowned Dubai-based conglomerate, Al Ali Group.

"This landmark partnership, formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Tuesday, aims to push Ajaya into the global market while fostering joint ventures in Nepal's thriving tourism industry," said the company in a statement. 

Yaqoob Al Ali, Executive Chairman of Al Ali Group, and Rakesh Kumar Adukia of Ajaya signed the MoU, combining their expertise and investments to expedite Ajaya's global market presence.

Adukia expressed optimism about the partnership, and said, "Ajaya, introduced by a Nepali expert, aspires not only to flourish domestically but to make its mark on the global stage. Partnering with Al Ali Group brings together investment and expertise, paving the way for its rapid global establishment."

According to him, the MoU signifies a shared vision to attract foreign investment in Nepal's burgeoning hospitality sector, recognised as a highly appealing destination for global investors. Al Ali Group and Ajaya plan to pool resources for joint investments in Nepal's tourism sector in the days to come.

Al Ali emphasised the group's keen interest in Nepal's tourism potential. "We see a significant potential in Nepal's tourism sector. Al Ali Group wishes to collaborate in tourism and hospitality in Nepal, leveraging our extensive experience in the field. The MoU has made us very enthusiastic," He said.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 7 February 2024.      

Dhakal urges NRNs in Qatar to invest in Nepal

Kathmandu, Jan. 27

Chandra Prasad Dhakal, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), has urged the Nepali immigrants in Qatar to invest in various sectors of Nepal.

Addressing the conference of 'Nepal Business Association Qatar' held in Doha, Dhakal called for investment in Nepal's tourism, infrastructure development, renewable energy and agriculture sectors.

"Nepal has a lot of potential for investment in areas like tourism, infrastructure development, renewable energy and agriculture. Likewise, Qatar's development experience in the fields of renewable energy, tourism and hospitality, infrastructure development, urbanisation, and information technology can be used in Nepal," he said according to a statement issued by his secretariat.  

According to Dhakal, Nepali workers have contributed to the economic growth and development of Qatar so Nepalis in Qatar should establish a technical school in Nepal to create skilled workers.

He argued that the provision of citizenship made by the Nepali government for non-resident Nepalis should also encourage the Nepalis scattered around the world to invest in Nepal.

As the Government of Nepal is going to hold an investment conference in collaboration with the FNCCI to attract foreign investment in Nepal, he urged them to promote the investment environment and opportunities in Nepal and encourage Qatari investors to come to Nepal.

Dhakal said that the government has expressed its commitment to create an investment-friendly environment by removing many legal obstacles. "Within a few years, Nepal will be upgraded from a Least Developed Country (LDC) to a developing country. It will create many possibilities in Nepal's economy and Qatar can become a major partner in our drive to diversify the economy," he said.

He also said that the recent high-level agreement on energy with India is positive and it has paved the way for investment in hydropower and energy trade in our country.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 28 January 2024.     

FNCCI to host Nepal-Dubai Business Forum

 Kathmandu, Nov. 28

The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FNCCI) is organising Nepal-Dubai Business Forum in Dubai of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on 30 November.

Prime Minister Pushpakmal Dahal Prachanda will be the chief guest of the event which is being held with the support and cooperation of Nepali Embassy in the UAE, the FNCCI informed in a statement on Tuesday. About 100 business persons from both countries are expected to attend the conference.

"The Forum will discuss the expansion of economic and business relations between the two countries, investment promotion and expansion of the labor market, market expansion and potential of Nepali agricultural products in the Middle East," said the FNCCI.

Chandra Prasad Dhakal, President of the business body, expressed his belief that the business conference will help in attracgint investment from the Middle East to Nepal and promoting the export of Nepali agricultural products to the countries there.

It is believed that the doors of mutual cooperation will be opened in the energy and tourism sectors from the conference.

Earlier, the FNCCI has organised business conferences in India and China in the presence of PM Prachanda.

Following the Business Forum, the delegation of the FNCCI led by Dhakal is scheduled to participate in the United Nations Climate Conference (COP 28) which will be held in Dubai on December 1 and 2.

Meanwhile, PM Prachanda is leaving for Dubai on Wednesday leading the Nepali delegation to the 28^th COP.

He is scheduled to attend the high-level session of the CO28 World Climate Action Summit on 1 and 2 December and deliver Nepal's naitonal statement on the second day.

PM Prachdna will also attend the UAE's 52^nd Union Day celebrations and Zayed Sustainability Prize Awards Ceremony to be hosted by the UAE.

On the second day of the conference, he will host a high-level side event entitled 'Call of the mountain: Who saves us from the climate crisis?' to raise the voice of Nepal on climate changes as well as promote the mountain agenda in the COP negotiation process, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nepal had informed the other day.

PM Prachanda will also hold bilateral meetings with the heads of states, heads of governments and high dignitaries attending the conference. 

  Published in The Rising Nepal on 29 November 2023.