A new chapter of Nepal-Qatar cooperation

A new chapter of Nepal-Qatar cooperation has started with the high-level meeting and agreement held during the visit of the King (Emir) of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Nepal. During the visit, seven new agreements of bilateral interest were signed and one agreement was renewed. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda in his statement said that there is a suitable opportunity for investment in the fields of agriculture, tourism and infrastructure in Nepal.

Emir of Qatar Thani said that Qatar is ready to expand the area of investment and economic cooperation. He has proposed the formation of a joint team to study the feasibility of investment and cooperation. The Prime Minister welcomed and agreed to this proposal that came in formal talks. 

Prime Minister Prachanda and King Thani of Qatar held two separate talks on Tuesday and Wednesday. After he landed in Kathmandu on Tuesday afternoon, Prime Minister Prachanda held an unscheduled discussion in the special room of the Tribhuvan International Airport. Prime Minister Prachanda had a private discussion with King Thani before the formal talks on Wednesday. Prime Minister Prachanda said that the environment for investment has been created in Nepal and the government has also taken initiatives through the investment conference. The Qatar’s king said that Qatar is positive for that. He also said that it is positive to move forward in investment and cooperation, including increasing air connectivity between the two countries. Prime Minister Prachanda praised Qatar for facilitating and mediating world wars and conflicts for peaceful resolution. He drew the attention of the King to make high-level efforts for the safe return of Bipin Joshi from Kanchanpur, who is said to be in the custody of the Hamas group.

 Prime Minister Prachanda said that Qatar Airlines should also fly to Pokhara, the tourist capital of Nepal, and Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha. In response, the king suggested to do homework by forming a joint team on overall cooperation. Prime Minister Prachanda said that agriculture, mining, energy and hydropower, infrastructure development, tourism, information and communication technology and service and hospitality sectors are suitable for foreign investment. Stating that the relationship between Nepal and Qatar is based on cordial friendship, mutual respect, trust and cooperation, Prime Minister Prachanda said that the relationship has reached a new height with the King’s visit. After coming to Nepal, the Qatari King had a meeting with President Ramchandra Paudel.

Emir Thani of Qatar returned home on Wednesday after concluding the state visit to Nepal. President Ram Chandra Paudel, Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav, Prime Minister Prachanda and other high officials saw him off at the Tribhuvan International Airport.