KATHMANDU: During today’s session of the House of Representatives (HoR), lawmakers engaged in discussions concerning the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Charter, emphasizing the importance of leveraging this regional platform for Nepal’s economic advancement.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Narayan Kaji Shrestha, proposed the commencement of general discussions on the BIMSTEC Charter, which prompted a robust exchange of ideas among the lower house members.
Participants highlighted the need for Nepal to harness the potential of BIMSTEC for poverty alleviation, energy development, tourism promotion, transportation connectivity, infrastructure enhancement, and climate change mitigation efforts.
Additionally, they underscored the importance of bolstering the effectiveness of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
Lawmakers advocated for simultaneous engagement with both BIMSTEC and SAARC, emphasizing the importance of keeping Nepal free from geopolitical influences.
Representatives including Raghuji Panta, Yogesh Kumar Bhattarai, and Shishir Khanal, among others, contributed to the deliberations.
In response to raised concerns, Deputy Prime Minister Shrestha assured the serious consideration of these matters, reaffirming the core objectives of regional forums in fostering collaboration among South Asian nations for economic growth and cooperation.
Highlighting Nepal’s active membership in BIMSTEC, Shrestha informed the House about ongoing efforts to identify developmental priorities and leverage benefits.
He also disclosed Nepal’s preparations for active participation in the upcoming BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand.
The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that while BIMSTEC offers opportunities, SAARC retains its significance, and the government is committed to advancing both platforms.
Established in 1997 with Nepal joining in 2004, BIMSTEC currently comprises seven member countries, with Nepal serving as the current chair.
Additionally, Minister for Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, Shakti Bahadur Basnet, presented an agreement on the establishment of the International Solar Alliance, while Minister for Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs, Padam Giri, presented a proposal for consideration on amendments received from the National Assembly.
Furthermore, Speaker Devraj Ghimire informed the House about a vacant post under the proportional category of the Janata Samajbadi Party, and Deputy-Speaker Indira Rana announced reshuffling members in various HoR committees, directing the conduct of elections for the vacant post of President of the Education, Health, and Information Technology Committee.
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