KATHMANDU, JUL 12 -
With the objective of maintaining and enhancing links between Nepal and France, the Nepal Council of World Affairs (NCWA) organised a talk programme on the theme ‘Dynamics of Nepal-France relations in the 21st century’. French Ambassador Jean Charles Demarquis, the chief guest at the event held at the NCWA premises in Harihar Bhawan on July 10, gave an insightful speech on the dynamics of the relationship between the two countries, and how it could be best harnessed to usher Nepal towards economic prosperity.
“I am in love with this country, but I would like to see more development here in terms of hydropower, water management and other sectors,” said the ambassador. “There is so much potential for investment and economic development—both in terms of domestic and foreign interest—and much room for improvement.” He emphasised that despite slow growth, the Nepali people should be thankful for the progress that the country has seen over time, and the steps the government has taken, all contributors to Nepal’s stature in the international arena. “Thirty thousand French tourists come to Nepal every year; it’s the hospitality of the people here that keeps them coming back.”
Professor Dr Shreedhar Gautam, NCWA’s secretary general, Tika Jung Thapa, president, and Hemanta Kharel, the vice president, also gave a series of welcome speeches, which were followed by a question-answer session with the audience. Questions ranged from how feasible investment in nuclear power in Nepal would be to the country’s political situation, and whether it would be possible to bring about a sense of stability.
Part of the agenda of the programme was to encourage Nepalis to attend the Planet Nepal Festival in France, and in particular to encourage students to explore higher education options there.
Source: http://www.ekantipur.com/2012/07/12/entertainment/an-expression-of-solidarity/356986/
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