Kathmandu, July 5:

South Asian trade, development and diplomatic circle today said that women entrepreneurs in the SAARC countries are emerging as a strong force in economic development of the region.

K P Sharma Oli, deputy prime minister and foreign minister launching SAARC Chamber Crafts Village Project developed under the SAARC Chamber Wom-en Entrepreneurs Council, said that women entrepreneurs are coming out strongly in the economic advancement in SAARC. Oli hoped that the new project would turn out to be useful in enhancing the skills and sharing of knowledge among the SAARC women entrepreneurs.

He also said that there is a clear mention in SAARC Convention about the rig-hts of women, education, health and other issues.

Dasho Ugen Tsechup Dorji, president of SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry on the occasion, said, “As women comprises 49 per cent of the total population in South Asia they need to be promoted through entrepreneurship skills and developing linkages. The initiation of project targeting women in the SAARC region is a significant milestone that would ultimately boost socio-economic advancement.”

Chandi Raj Dhakal, president of FNCCI addressing the programme said that the project is a common platform to showcase the indigenous products of the women entrepreneurs from the South Asia.