International Trade Fair kicks off

Kathmandu, March 8 (RSS): A five-day International Trade Fair has begun here today with an objective of promoting Nepali products and services in the global market, thereby boosting the national economy.

Some 300 stalls of agro products, electrical appliances and other industrial products of Nepal, India, China, Bangladesh and Pakistan are on display and sale in the expo organised at local Bhrikutimandap. The expo is organised by Federation of Nepali Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) with the support of the government.

Inaugurating the expo, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli said that economic prosperity and development are the agenda of the state so the government has paid attention to it with national determination. “It is necessary that all Nepali people should move ahead towards the path of economic prosperity by utilizing every resource available in the country along with adoption of science and technology.

He also laid emphasis on making the country economically strong and capable, expressing commitment to reduce trade deficit as well as to create environment conducive to attracting more foreign investment.

The Prime Minister clarified that economic prosperity and development are the major goals of the incumbent government as national economy could be uplifted through promotion of cottage and small industries, establishment of dairy industry and other local industries.

Saying poverty alleviation and taking the country towards industrialization are the determination of the incumbent government and the neighbouring countries are ready to help Nepal for the same, he expressed the belief that such fair would be useful to disseminate the message that the Nepal has been established as an attractive destination giving fruitful result of investment.

The government’s plan is to fulfil commitments the country has made to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals like that of carrying out social and economic development activities, promoting human rights, ensuring good governance, building equitable society and adopting zero tolerance policy to corruption, he said.

“The incumbent government is liable for the country and its people. I as head of the government will work day and night to ensure prosperity and change the country in the next five years. For that, I need support and cooperation from private sector,” he said.
Creation of employment opportunities within the country, productivity increment and implementation of policies and programmes are top priorities of the present government, he said.

On the occasion, he also said that the preparations for representing Nepal in the World Expo, 2020 to be held in Dubai should be done in a way that would heighten country’s identity and pride.

Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies Matrika Yadav said trade diversification, industrial development, increasing national income and uplifting the living standard of the people are the major priorities of the government. He also warned of taking stern action against those indulging in financial irregularities in the name of advance payment.

Finance Minister Dr Yubaraj Khatiwada said the government would soon introduce industry-friendly regulations that would have a long-term impact on the overall economy of the country. All should work together to bring down the increasing trade deficit in the country, he added.

Vice-president of FNCCI Shekhar Golcha and other speakers shed light on the special features and expected contribution of the trade fair. FNCCI President Bhawani Rana presided.