Nepal and Qatar have held high-level discussions on enhancing economic development, tourism promotion, and bilateral cooperation between the two countries. The meeting was attended by Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Anil Kumar Sinha, Qatar’s Ambassador to Nepal Misal Bin Mohammed Ali Al Ansari, Chamber of Commerce and Industry Qatar board member Mohammad Bin Ahmed Al Obaidli, and Chairman of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) Chandra Prasad Dhakal, along with representatives from Qatar Airways.
Expanding air connectivity and tourism
During the discussions, the delegation focused on strengthening economic ties, promoting tourism, and expanding aviation cooperation. Special attention was given to increasing direct flights between Nepal and Qatar, introducing new destinations, and exploring partnership opportunities between Nepal Airlines Corporation and Qatar Airways.
Minister Sinha emphasized the importance of active participation from international airlines for the full operation of Pokhara International Airport and Gautam Buddha International Airport. He also highlighted the government’s efforts to implement policy reforms and facilitation measures to boost tourism, investment, and trade in Nepal.
Investment opportunities and bilateral collaboration
FNCCI Chairman Dhakal pointed out that there is considerable potential for expanding tourism, investment, aviation, hotel, and infrastructure sectors between Nepal and Qatar. He noted that Qatari investors could find attractive opportunities in Nepal’s hydropower, tourism, agriculture, and service sectors.
Mohammad Bin Ahmed Al Obaidli expressed Qatar’s private sector interest in long-term economic cooperation with Nepal. He said that aviation and tourism collaboration would further strengthen trade relations and people-to-people connections between the two nations.
Outlook for future cooperation
The discussions are expected to elevate Nepal-Qatar relations, facilitate tourism promotion, and boost economic development through expanded air connectivity. The Qatari delegation visited Nepal on Sunday for the Nepal-Qatar Joint Business Council (JBC) meeting, invited by the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI). Officials from both sides expressed optimism that enhanced collaboration in aviation, tourism, and investment will bring mutual economic benefits and further strengthen bilateral relations.
