Nepal and Qatar Discuss Boosting Economic Ties, Tourism, and Aviation Cooperation

Kathmandu, February 12: Discussions were held between Nepal and Qatar regarding overall economic development, tourism promotion, and exchange of cooperation. A meeting took place between Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Anil Kumar Sinha, Qatar's Ambassador to Nepal H.E. Mishal Bin Mohammed Ali Al Ansari, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) Chandra Prasad Dhakal, Board Member of Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mohad Ahmed M. A. Al Obaidli, and representatives from Qatar Airways.

The meeting involved detailed discussions on strengthening Nepal-Qatar economic development, tourism promotion, expansion of air services, and cooperation in the civil aviation sector.

Discussions were particularly focused on increasing the number of direct flights between Nepal and Qatar, adding new destinations, and exploring possibilities for collaboration between Nepal Airlines and Qatar Airways.

During the discussion, Minister Sinha mentioned the necessity of active participation from international airlines for the full operation of Pokhara International Airport and Gautam Buddha International Airport, stating that Qatar Airways' role would be significant. He also informed that the government is emphasizing policy reforms and facilitation to expand tourism, investment, and trade in Nepal.

FNCCI President Dhakal stated that there are possibilities for expansion in tourism, investment, aviation, hotel, and infrastructure sectors between Nepal and Qatar. He highlighted attractive prospects for Qatari investors in Nepal's hydropower, tourism, agriculture, and service sectors.

Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry Board Member Mohad Ahmed M.A. Al Obaidli noted the interest of the Qatari private sector in long-term economic cooperation with Nepal and expressed confidence that cooperation in aviation and tourism would further strengthen trade and people-to-people relations between the two countries.

It is expected that this meeting will take Nepal-Qatar relations to a new height and contribute to economic development through tourism promotion and expansion of air connectivity. The Qatari delegation arrived in Nepal on Sunday at the invitation of the FNCCI for the meeting of the Nepal-Qatar Joint Business Council (JBC).

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