KATHMANDU, FEBRUARY 23

The Melbourne Summit 2025 successfully concluded with a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainable development, in Ascot Vale, Melbourne.

Organized by Himalayan Outreach International Australia, the event brought together lawmakers, mayors, representatives, entrepreneurs, and experts from Nepal, Australia, and the USA.

The summit was inaugurated with a welcome speech by Dan Ghising, International Director of Himalayan Outreach. Moniratna Sapkota, Vice President of Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) Australia and Coordinator for Victoria, highlighted the strong Australia-Nepal relations and the importance of Nepalese cultural activities in multicultural Australia.

Throughout the event, several experts and officials shared their insights on key global issues, including sports, innovation, trade, and diplomacy.

Dr. Om Krishna Prasai, board member of Nepal Sports University, emphasized the role of sports in strengthening Nepal-Australia ties and the necessity of knowledge exchange to enhance sports education. Similarly, Kashi Adhikari, a representative from the USA, underscored the importance of global peace and harmony, while Dr. Pradeep Bastola presented a concept paper, asserting that innovation is the foundation of sustainable development. Discussions on rural-urban planning were led by Hari Kandel, Chief Administrative Officer of Baglung Municipality, and Khima Gharti Magar, Ward Chairperson of Dhorpatan Municipality, who also presented a documentary on the subject.

Expanding on international trade, Sharmin Mishu, a journalist and entrepreneur from Bangladesh, presented a concept paper on cross-border trade opportunities and challenges. Meanwhile, social activist Niru Tripathi elaborated on Nepal-Australia diplomatic relations. Kathleen Matthew Ward, a Member of Parliament from Victoria, praised Nepalese culture and expressed her strong connection with the Nepalese community.

Former Minister and Federal MP of Nepal, Prakash Jwala, described the Melbourne Summit 2025 as a historic event, stressing its significance in fostering innovation and sustainable development. Concluding the program, Urmila Tamang, the event's chair, announced that similar summits would be organized in Nepal and the USA in the near future.

The summit was attended by several notable figures, including Dipendra Bista, Member of the National Sports Council of Nepal; Jenny Barrera, Former Mayor and Councillor of Wyndham City Council; Dr. Jasmine Hill, Councillor; Nawal Khadka, President of the Nepal Film Producers Association; and Raymond Lo, President of the Lions Club of Werribee.

The Melbourne Summit 2025 served as a vital platform for global collaboration, bringing together leaders and experts to discuss innovation, sustainability, and international cooperation.