We need to run the country on our own for it to prosper and develop Pokhara, January 10 Minister for Industry Som Prasad Pandey today underscored the need for Nepal to head towards self-reliance. Speaking to representatives of Pokhara FNCCI today, Pandey said, “We need to drive the country on our own for the country’s prosperity and self-reliance. Had we started to run the country on our own soon after the restoration of the democracy in 1990, we would not have faced the present crisis in the country.” He commended the contribution made by the private sector and stressed that the country should run drug-manufacturing industries along with agro-items. However, he commented on privatisation of Bhrikuti Paper Industry, Bansbari Leather Shoes Factory and Agriculture Tools factory. “Nepalese people are quiet and calm though they have been facing a hard time, as the present crisis has been linked up with the issue of nationalism. The government is preparing to resolve the problems diplomatically,” claimed Pandey. He said that letting any external force invade the country was against the sovereignty of the people of Nepal. Minister Pandey also admitted that the government was preparing to establish an industrial estate in each of the seven provinces. Speaking at the function, President of Pokhara FNCCI Bindu Kumar Thapa said the country’sdevelopment was not possible without industrial development. Hence, he urged the authority to create conducive atmosphere for the security of industries.