BIMSTEC should be focused on economic development and prosperity

Kathmandu,  Diplomatic sector experts have stressed that the agenda of economic development and prosperity put forward by the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) should be put at the centre. 
The experts suggested that the BIMSTEC should be made strong and competent by figuring out reasons behind the laggards of the body which was established to advance economic prosperity, end poverty and expand linkage and coordination. 
Addressing a seminar 'BIMSTEC – Perceived Projection' organized here today by Institute for Foreign Affairs, the speakers said that the international forums should be best utilized to take benefits from them. 
On the occasion, CPN-UML leader and former Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal said special attention should be paid to address poverty, end unemployment and expand linkages. "Such international forums would be helpful for the Least Developed Countries like Nepal for economic prosperity and development", he added. 
Making it clear that Nepal had never been involved in the campaign against any country, he said the country would move ahead by maintaining balanced relations with the neighbours. 
Also speaking on the occasion, Foreign Secretary Shanker Das Bairagi underscored the need of cooperation from all sides to make BIMSTEC a meaningful forum. 
Presenting a working paper at the programme, former Finance Minister Madhukar Shumsher Rana said Nepal should put all-out efforts to reap benefits from BIMSTEC which was established to focus on economic affairs. 
Another paper presenter, diplomat Madhu Raman Acharya said there is no alternative but to evolve the multi-sectoral body by addressing reasons behind its non-functioning. 
Academy Executive Director Panna Kaji Amatya underlined the need of meaningful efforts to establish relevance of the body. 
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