Himalayan News Service

Kathmandu, April 4:

Crown Prince Paras inaugurated the 52 annual general meeting (AGM) of Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) at Birendra International Conference Centre in the capital today. Crown Princess Himani Rajya Laxmi Devi Shah was also present at the programme.

Speaking at the inaugural of the 52nd AGM, Rajesh Kaji Shrestha, president of NCC stressed on the need to identify comparative advantageous sector for making the national economy strong.

Agriculture, water resources and tourism are few of the sectors where Nepal has immense potential, he said. In the context of trade, the country should focus on trade policies, rules related to manufacturing, boosting compensation, anti-dumping law, protection of intellectual property and increasing quality of products, he said.

Likewise, the country should promote, investment and export. Shrestha urged for immediate steps to help raise export of readymade garments, which declined sharply over the last few years. Development of information technology also should be at par with other issues, Shrestha said. Shrestha also raised the issue of making revenue policies simple, clear and practical.

The Crown Prince put a seal on commemorative edition of a postal stamp issued on the occasion of the golden jubilee of NCC.

The Crown Prince also honoured various dignitaries and organisations for their contribution in increasing trade activities in the country. Mechi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Nepalgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Kailali Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Morang Trade Association were also honoured at the programme. Nepal Overseas, Hotel Association of Nepal, Arihant Multifibre, Mercantile Communication, Bhat Bhateni Super Market and many other organisations were appreciated for their contributions to trade, export, tourism and employment generation.

Buddhi Raj Bajracharya, minister for tourism, culture and civil aviation said that people from all walks of life have influence on the development of the country and therefore, everybody should participate to improve the condition of Nepal.