KATHMANDU: Mishaal Bin Mohamed Ali Al-Ansari, Qatar’s ambassador to Nepal, paid a courtesy visit to Damodar Bhandari, Nepal’s Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, today.
During their meeting at the Ministry, Minister Bhandari congratulated Qatar on its preparations to host the third Summit of the Asian Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) later this year.
Minister Bhandari highlighted the longstanding and friendly relations between Nepal and Qatar, which have been characterized by mutual understanding and cooperation since the establishment of diplomatic ties on January 21, 1977.
He acknowledged Qatar as a significant destination for Nepali workers, noting that approximately 370,000 Nepalis are employed in various sectors in Qatar.
He also recognized the role of the Nepali Business Association in Qatar in strengthening economic ties between the two countries.
The Minister discussed opportunities for enhancing bilateral cooperation in trade, tourism, and investment.
He expressed hope for increased investment in Nepal from the Government of Qatar and the Qatar Fund for Development.
Additionally, he mentioned ongoing discussions about a draft agreement on mutual promotion and investment protection between the two governments.
Minister Bhandari emphasized the need to address Nepal’s trade deficit with Qatar and to find markets for Nepali products, including agricultural goods.
He proposed leveraging direct air connections to boost tourism and bilateral trade.
He also expressed satisfaction with the collaboration between Nepal and Qatar at the UN and other international forums on mutual interests.
In response, Ambassador Al-Ansari expressed a positive outlook and extended an invitation for Minister Bhandari to visit Qatar on October 2.
He emphasized the importance of scaling up mutual assistance to further strengthen bilateral relations.
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