KATHMANDU, JUNE 16

In an attempt to enhance the relationship between Nepal and Thailand, Thai-Nepal Friendship Association has been formed under the leadership of Everest summiteers and business leader Kun Vitidnan Rojananpanitch.

According to the association, an event was hosted by Nepal's ambassador to Thailand Dhan Bahadur Oli at his residence yesterday to officially recognize the new association.

Entrepreneurs Kanchha Gurung (Gabo) and Kampanard Anukul from Thailand have been named as the vice-president of the new association.

Speaking on the occasion, ambassador Oli lauded the role of Nepal and Thai businesspersons in enhancing people to people relations between the two countries. 'Thai-Nepal Friendship Association will certainly stand itself as a pillar for strengthening the bilateral ties between two countries,' he said.

President Vitidan scaled Mt Everest on 22 May 2008 leading a team of Vietnamese climbers and stayed on the top for 40 minutes, according to association.

Vice President Gabo owns Mitra Clothings, a textile and garments entity in Thailand while Anukul has been in the real estate business. The other members of the association include Krit Kunplin, Shree Hari Acharya, Karma Gurung, Umaporn Jiewaraporn, Arinrada Nimsanga, Kesarian Jirabunjerd, Espa Gurung, Sunit Shrestha, Sakul Intakul and Atis Shrestha.

A full executive board will be announced after holding a meeting of the association as soon as possible, vice-president Gabo said.

The association also named Bhante Anil Shakya and absaador Dhan Bahadur Oli as its patron and Karma Rana and Beni Lkhak as advisors. An Ex Professor at Thammasat University has been recognized as the association's founder.

'Association's main aim is to strengthen friendly ties between Nepal and Thailand as well as to enhance bilateral support and cooperation,' Gabo said.