Kathmandu, May 18:

Rajendra Mahato, minister for industry, commerce and supplies (MoICS) has said that industrial and commercial activities would gain momentum, as the country is heading towards a permanent political settlement.

Inaugurating the 27th annual general meeting of Nepal Handicraft Federation (NHF) today, Mahato said that people have not only sought political change but also sustainable economic development. Long lasting peace is a must for the sustainable development of industry, commerce and trade and the government is working in this regard, he added.

He said that the eight-party meeting is going to be held very soon and the political confusion will be addressed duly. He also assured to introduce an appropriate policy and programme to promote small and cottage industry. A new industrial policy will also address some of the issues of the sector. However, the government strongly felt the need of a separate policy for the sector, Mahato said.

Ajaad Shrestha, third vice-president of FNCCI demanded a package for rehabilitation of

sick industries and special programmes for economic diplomacy to promote exports.

Surendra Bir Malakar, president of Nepal Chamber of Commerce criticised the government’s apathy for promoting exports, especially handicraft.

Pancha Ratna Shakya, president of NHF said that the government should take the initiative in promoting Nepali goods including handicraft, particularly in the light of increasing tourist arrivals from China. He also demanded packages for export promotion of Nepali artistic handicraft.

He complained that the Handicraft Design and Development Centre is yet to come into full-fledged operation due to lack of resources, despite it having been in existence for more than two years. “The government has been paying just lip services for the promotion of handicraft exports,” Shakya added.

Minister Mahato also gave away honors and letters of appreciation to best exporters and entrepreneurs.

Those honored were Prabin Kumar Gurung, Prakash Lama, Swoyambhu Ratna Tuladhar,

Mina Karki, Satya Lal Shrestha, Bishnu Prasad Shrestha, Laxmi Sharma, Santosh Dhungel, Purna Kaji Shakya and Rabindra Nath Sharma.