Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Narayan Kaji Shrestha has underscored Nepal’s dedication to regional cooperation and multilateralism, emphasizing the importance of implementing the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) Vision 2030 and Blueprint 2021-2030. His remarks were made at the 19th Ministerial Meeting of the ACD held in Tehran on Monday, as stated by Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a press release.
In his address, DPM Shrestha highlighted the crucial role of the ACD as an inclusive regional forum fostering open dialogue on pressing issues impacting Asia and beyond. He reiterated Nepal’s commitment to the ACD’s objectives, which align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, focusing on growth, sustainability, and prosperity.
Tourism emerged as a key theme in Shrestha’s speech, positioning it as a vital component of regional collaboration and economic development. He stressed that enhancing tourism infrastructure and fostering cross-border tourism initiatives could significantly contribute to mutual prosperity and cultural exchange among ACD member states.
“The tourism sector holds immense potential for driving economic growth and fostering cultural understanding across our region,” Shrestha noted. “By implementing the ACD Vision 2030, we can create a more integrated and resilient tourism network that benefits all member states.”
Shrestha also addressed several global challenges, including the impacts of COVID-19, climate change, economic recession, and geopolitical tensions. He called for a collective vision and unity among ACD members to overcome these obstacles and build a more integrated and prosperous Asia.
The Ministerial Meeting concluded with the adoption of important documents: the Guiding Principles for the Functioning of the ACD Secretariat and the ACD Rules of Procedures. These frameworks aim to strengthen cooperation and institutional support among ACD members, providing a robust foundation for future initiatives, including those in the tourism sector.
On the sidelines of the meeting, DPM Shrestha engaged in bilateral discussions with several foreign ministers, including those from Iran, Myanmar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Russia. These meetings focused on mutual interests, regional stability, and enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including tourism.
In addition to his official engagements, Shrestha attended an interaction program with the Nepali diaspora at the Honorary Consulate General of Nepal in Tehran. He committed to providing effective consular services to Nepali citizens abroad, emphasizing the government’s dedication to supporting its diaspora community.
Deputy Prime Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha’s participation in the ACD Ministerial Meeting reaffirms Nepal’s commitment to regional cooperation, multilateralism, and sustainable tourism development. By focusing on collective growth and addressing global challenges, Nepal aims to contribute significantly to a resilient and prosperous Asia. Shrestha departed Tehran for Kathmandu on the evening of June 24, 2024, continuing his efforts to strengthen Nepal’s role in regional and global forums.
