Kathmandu: The Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) held an economic-focused discussion with Nepal’s proposed ambassadors on Monday evening. During the meeting, CNI President Rajesh Kumar Agrawal emphasized the importance of prioritizing economic diplomacy and urged the ambassadors to play a pivotal role in connecting foreign investors to Nepal.
Highlighting the need to expand economic relations, Agrawal advocated for the development of country-specific economic strategies and the appointment of “focal contact persons” at all Nepali embassies to facilitate foreign and domestic investors. He noted that while political relationships may fluctuate, stable and strong economic ties serve as the foundation of international relations.
Referring to Nepal’s improved country rating, Agrawal expressed confidence that this positive rating could attract investments in key sectors. He also highlighted the importance of preferential trade agreements (PTAs) to ensure Nepal’s interests are safeguarded as the country transitions to developing nation status by 2026.
The CNI called for a focus on reducing Nepal’s trade deficit by promoting local products and investment in sectors such as tourism, information technology, hydropower, and infrastructure.
Acting Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai underscored the role of ambassadors in promoting Nepali goods, facilitating businesses, and connecting Nepali entrepreneurs with international investors. He urged them to focus on easing exports of Nepali goods and services.
The proposed ambassadors, including Dr. Shankar Sharma, Seva Lamsal, Chitralekha Yadav, Chandra Kumar Ghimire, Dr. Sumnima Tuladhar, Dr. Jang Bahadur Chauhan, Prof. Kapilman Shrestha, Prakashmani Paudel, Dr. Shivamaya Tumbahangphe, Dr. Purna Bahadur Nepali, and Dr. Netra Prasad Timilsina, committed to representing Nepal’s interests and promoting economic diplomacy. They assured their support in facilitating economic growth and assisting the private sector.
The program was attended by former CNI President Hari Bhakta Sharma, Senior Vice President Birendra Raj Pandey, Vice Presidents Hemraj Dhakal, Rohit Gupta, and Amit More, along with other members of the governing council, including Shashikant Agrawal and Bal Krishna Shrestha, and CNI Director General Dr. Ghanshyam Ojha.
