In a bid to strengthen Nepal-Australia relations, promote mutual cooperation, culture, and tourism, the ‘Nepal-Australia: Cultural and Honor Program 2025’ was held on Wednesday at the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu. The event saw discussions on various aspects of Nepal-Australia trade, entrepreneurship, culture, and tourism promotion.
The program was organized by Dhaulagiri Adventure Pvt. Ltd. in collaboration with Maulika Films. Speaking at the event, Rupa BK, the State Minister for Forests and Environment, highlighted the strong and friendly ties between Nepal and Australia. She emphasized how tourism, culture, and education act as bridges between the two countries.
Ian Green, the founder of the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion in Melbourne, Australia, shared insights into the deep and close relationship between the two nations. The Great Stupa, one of the world’s important Buddhist monuments, is modeled after the Boudhanath Stupa in Lumbini. It has been a beacon for promoting Buddhist teachings, peace, meditation, and culture in Australia. Ian Green was honored with a special recognition during the program. Kailash Raj Pokharel, former Nepali Ambassador to Australia, praised Ian Green’s contributions to spreading Buddhism globally through the Great Stupa. He fondly recalled his visit to the Stupa during his tenure as an ambassador and appreciated Ian’s efforts.
Lharkyal Lama (Khenpo Chimed), Vice Chairman of the Lumbini Area Development Fund, expressed concern over the low number of Nepali visitors to the Lumbini area. He urged Nepali citizens to visit Lumbini, at least once a year during Buddha Jayanti, to appreciate its cultural and spiritual significance, highlighting how Lumbini serves as a bridge between Nepal and Australia.
Basant Kumar Shrestha, Mayor of Baglung Municipality, emphasized the importance of international cooperation for the country’s development. He stressed that Nepal is not merely a small stone but a gem in the region, and with a focus on production, particularly targeting India and China, Nepal can achieve prosperity.
Program coordinator Dan Ghising stated that discussions and interactions between experts and representatives from both countries would elevate Nepal-Australia relations to new heights. Angkami Sherpa, Chairman of Dhaulagiri Adventure Pvt. Ltd., assured that similar programs would be organized in the future to strengthen the bond between Nepal and Australia. The event also featured cultural performances, including songs and dances by artists like Kavita Khatri and Ajit Ghising.
