Pakistan, Nepal ‘partner in fight against climate change’:Federal Minister of Energy
Naveed Ahmad Khan Photos Ramzan Mughal / Sultan Bashir
Federal Minister of Energy (Power Division) Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari and Ambassador of Nepal Mr. Tapas Adhikari have noted climate change and environment as the key areas where both countries can and should work together because both are affected by this challenge. Their observations came at the National Day and Constitution Day of Nepal that was celebrated at Serena Hotels Islamabad on 20th Sep 2024.
Mr. and Mrs Tapas Adhikari, Ambassador of Nepal hosted a magnificent reception to mark the Day with national pride and bilateral resolve to further cement the already present cordial relations and close cooperation.
Minister Awais Laghari was chief guest at the ceremony while notables from Gov , Armed Forces, Diplomatic Community, Businessmen, Civil Society and Media persons were also present to express their solidarity with Nepalese gov and people. Prominent among them were Mr. Isphanyar Bhandara MNA , Dean of Diplomatic Corp Ambassador Turkmenistan Atadjan Movlamov, Former Minister State for Foreign Affairs Hammad Malik and others.
The hall was beautifully decorated with the cultural heritage, tourists attractions, mountains and landscape. Nepalese movie songs were also screened that made us recall the golden era of joint film productions between late 80s and early 90s.
Minister Laghari congratulated the people and gov of Nepal on their auspicious occasion and appreciated Nepal’s role in maintaining a good neighborhood and playing constructive part at bilateral, regional and international levels.
Ambassador Tapas Adhikari, in his welcoming address, apprised the guests about the background of the Constitution Day of Nepal.
H.E shared, “On this day in 2015,a diverse and inclusive elected representatives of the Constituent Assembly came together to craft a constitution which reflects the hopes, dreams and unity of the people of Nepal. This constitution stands as a symbol of our shared journey , our resilience and our commitment to building a brighter and inclusive future. To commemorate the day, the Gov of Nepal organizes the Constitution Day and National Day recalling the journey of constitution making and sharing the salient features of the Constitution.”
“The Nepali Constitution embodies the principles of democracy, human rights, peace, progress and prosperity with social justice, equality and equity at its center. The Constitution is not just a document; it is a social contract that upholds the values of modern democracy, placing inclusivity at the heart of its vision, the Ambassador continued.
The Constitution provides the women their due place and role in Nepal. As Mr. Adhikari said, It guarantees the participation of women, marginalized groups and other minorities in the decision making process. One third of parliamentary and provincial assemblies’ seats are reserved for women.
H.E added, “The foundation laid by the Constitution continues to grow stronger. Under the constitutional provisions, the first elected parliament has completed its 5 year term and now the second parliament is at the helm of affairs. Likewise, our provincial and local governments are working to meet the people’s expectations for peace, progress and prosperity with steadfast commitment to equality, equality and justice.”
Nepal Pakistan Relations
H.E Adhikari shed light on bilateral relations and cooperation as well. He noted that both countries enjoy friendly relations marked by cordiality , goodwill and cooperation ever since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1960. The relations have expanded over the decades in multiple sectors including cooperation during the natural calamities like earthquakes in Nepal or in floods in Pakistan.
Many Nepali students are studying in Pakistan in the field of medical and engineering under technical assistance programme and those who have completed their courses are now contributing to their respective fields in Nepali. They have truly enriched our relations as well. We are grateful to the Gov of Pakistan for this important cooperation.
Nepal and Pakistan are founding members of SAARC and members of the United Nations with commitment to the charter of these organizations. Both countries have been consistently collaborating in bilateral, regional and multilateral forums working towards the common goals of promoting peace, stability and development .
Lately , both countries are actively engaged in advancing key agendas, including sustainable development, climate action and environmental protection , recognizing that these efforts are crucial for the well being of our nations and the world at large.
There is a huge prospect of expanding and increasing our business relations. We need to continue working together to expand them further for the mutual benefit of our countries and people.
Mountain & Adventure Tourism in Nepal
Nepal recognized as a global hub for mountain and adventure tourism. It is a learning center for mountaineering. A large number of foreign tourists including many from Pakistan visit Nepal for trekking, mountaineering and adventure related activities. Some glimpses are presented here on displays today as well. Nepal’s diverse cultures and tradition and renowned hospitality have firmly placed our country on the global tourism map. Nepal is ready and eager to welcome guests for various tourism activities by offering unforgettable experiences to all visitors.
Ambassador saddened the guests by sharing that he is about to leave Pakistan for his next assignment. He has completed 4 eventful years in Pakistan. Minister Laghari lauded his services for enhancing bilateral cooperation and expressed best wishes for his future endeavors.