Pokhara Metropolitan City has taken another step toward strengthening its international tourism profile as Mayor Dhanraj Acharya and Ambassador Shmulik Arie Bass held discussions on expanding tourism cooperation, cultural exchange, and the possibility of establishing direct air connectivity between Pokhara and Israel. The courtesy meeting focused on enhancing Nepal Israel relations while identifying new opportunities to promote tourism, investment, agriculture, technology, education, and employment. However, tourism emerged as one of the key priorities, with both sides recognizing the importance of stronger international partnerships in supporting Pokhara’s long-term tourism growth.
Direct Flights Could Open New Tourism Opportunities
A major highlight of the meeting was the discussion on the potential introduction of direct flights between Pokhara and Israel. Improved air connectivity could make travel more convenient for Israeli visitors and strengthen Pokhara’s position as one of Nepal’s leading international tourism destinations. The two sides also explored ways to expand tourism and cultural exchanges, encouraging greater people to people connections and promoting mutual understanding through travel and shared cultural experiences.
Vision to Position Pokhara as a Global Destination
Mayor Acharya emphasized that collaboration with Israel could support Pokhara’s ambition of becoming a globally recognized tourism hub. He highlighted the importance of working together in tourism promotion, cultural cooperation, and aviation connectivity while also seeking support to enhance the skills and capacity of the metropolitan city’s technical workforce.
The mayor further noted that cooperation in modern agricultural technology, technical education, skill development, and knowledge transfer would contribute to the city’s broader economic and tourism development.
Israel Highlights Agricultural Knowledge Exchange
Ambassador Arie Bass spoke about Israel’s “Learn and Earn” agricultural programme, through which Nepali youth have been gaining practical knowledge, modern farming skills, and professional experience in Israel. He expressed confidence that Nepal could benefit from Israel’s advanced agricultural technologies and innovation-driven approach, creating new opportunities for collaboration beyond tourism.
Strengthening Tourism Through International Cooperation
The meeting reflects Pokhara’s continued efforts to build stronger international partnerships that support sustainable tourism development. With discussions on direct air connectivity, cultural exchange, and closer bilateral cooperation, both Nepal and Israel signaled their shared interest in expanding tourism ties while fostering broader economic and technical collaboration. If realized, direct flights and deeper tourism cooperation could further enhance Pokhara’s appeal to international travelers, reinforcing its status as Nepal’s premier gateway to the Himalayas and one of South Asia’s emerging tourism destinations.
