FNCCI President Dhakal awarded by Indonesian government

Kathmandu, November 5 — The President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and Honorary Consul of Indonesia to Nepal, Chandraprasad Dhakal, has been honored by the government of Indonesia.

Recognizing Dhakal's role in strengthening the bilateral relationship between Nepal and the Republic of Indonesia, the Indonesian government awarded him the prestigious Caraka Buwana Award.

This award, presented by Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is given to foreign individuals who have played a significant role in fostering relations with Indonesia. 

The award was presented by Heru H. Subolo, the Indonesian Ambassador to Nepal, on behalf of the Indonesian Foreign Minister, during a ceremony held in Kathmandu on Tuesday.

This honor highlights Dhakal’s efforts in promoting tourism, cultural exchange, and economic relations between the two countries.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Subolo praised Dhakal for his contributions, noting that his efforts have helped strengthen the relationship between Nepal and Indonesia and expanded cooperation in the areas of economics, culture, and diplomacy.

In response, Dhakal expressed his gratitude to the Indonesian government for the honor and said that this award has further inspired him to continue working towards mutual cooperation, development, and prosperity between Nepal and Indonesia.

Dhakal also thanked both governments for the recent agreements on a bilateral consultation mechanism and a visa-free deal between the two countries. He expressed confidence that these agreements would strengthen diplomatic relations, facilitate official visits, and provide a solid foundation for economic and regional cooperation.

He also mentioned the significant increase in the number of Nepali tourists visiting Indonesia in recent years and urged the Indonesian government to reinstate the provision of on-arrival visas for Nepali tourists, which had been suspended after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Previously, in recognition of his contribution to rescue and relief efforts during the 2015 earthquake in Nepal, the Indonesian government had also honored Dhakal.

Dhakal has been serving as Indonesia's Honorary Consul to Nepal since 2010.

The ceremony was attended by ambassadors from various countries, senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other distinguished guests.