KATHMANDU: Women working in the tourism sector have said that only sustainable and responsible tourism can help the development of the country.

Senior Director of Nepal Tourism Board Nandini Lahe Thapa pointed out the need to increase the participation of women in the tourism sector, which remains low at present.

Thapa lauded the role of the Tourism Sisterhood Association in enhancing the capacity of women working in the tourism sector.

Likewise, the corporate director of Nepal Airlines Corporation, Archana Khadka, said Nepali women have reached various positions in hotels and airlines at home and abroad which is a matter of happiness for all.

Buddha Airlines Executive Director Astha Basnet, Malaysian Airlines Nepal Chief Commercial Officer Tripti Chhetri, and Hotel Mechi Crown Deputy General Manager Alesha Karki said that empowerment is necessary for women to move forward.

The Association was found in 2018, starting with nine members. More than 50 women are currently affiliated to the Association.

Anupa Budhathoki, president of the Association and general manager of Sabre Travel Network Nepal, shared that the association has been working on leadership development by empowering women working in the tourism sector.

President of Nepal Association of Tours and Travel Agents (NATTA), Ramesh Thapa, former President CN Pandey, Head of Nepal for Cathay Pacific Airlines Junu Malekhu and others also participated in the program.