KATHMANDU: Non-Resident Ambassador of Spain to Nepal, Juan Antonio March Pujol, paid a courtesy call on Minister for Agriculture, Forest and Environment Gita Chaudhary.
During the meeting at the Ministry, discussions focused on modernizing agriculture, promoting agro-digitalization, improving quality production, water management, climate-smart farming, and expanding bilateral cooperation.
Ambassador Pujol requested Nepal’s support for Spain’s candidature for the post of Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization in the 2027 election. In response, Minister Chaudhary said she would consult the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the matter.
The Ambassador expressed Spain’s willingness to support Nepal in areas such as quality agricultural production, traceability systems, investment, and technology exchange. He also shared Spain’s experiences in agricultural innovation, including advanced technologies used in wine production in volcanic regions and traceability systems for olive oil and citrus fruits.
He further informed that Spain hosts major agricultural exhibitions and investment conferences that attract global stakeholders, adding that Nepal could also benefit from participation in such events. According to him, Nepal has also been invited to an international women-focused event through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Minister Chaudhary said Nepal is working toward agricultural digitalization, innovation, and youth empowerment. She added that Nepal has begun registering Geographical Indications (GI), with pilot projects underway for crops such as oranges and kiwis.
She emphasized the need for climate-resilient agricultural systems and stronger links between traditional farming and markets. While highlighting Nepal’s forest conservation efforts, she noted that the country is also highly affected by climate change and expressed interest in learning from Spain’s experience.
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