Kathmandu, August 17:

In order to expand trade and commerce, joint investments and Nepali exports, relation between the private sector of Nepal and Russia has been urged to be strengthened. Office bearers of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) held a meeting with Andrei Leonidovich Trofimov, Russian ambassador to Nepal, at the FNCCI secretariat.

Speaking on the occasion, Chandi Raj Dhakal, president of FNCCI, underlined the need of initiatives from diplomatic missions to increase bilateral trade and commerce as well as cooperation at the private sector level. “Since Nepal at present is passing through a critical stage, economic and social advancement is a major challenge ahead,” he said. Referring to bilateral trade between the two countries at a low level, Dhakal suggested expansion of relations between private sectors, exchange of business delegations and holding of trade fairs in both the countries.

Ambassador Trofimov assured his support to promote bilateral trade and economic relations between Nepal and Russia. He said small but effective projects could be a good start. Meanwhile, Dhakal met with Norbet Meyer, counsellor at the embassy of Germany in Kathmandu and discussed various issues including promotion of tourism and bilateral investment. Dhakal urged for Nepal’s publicity and promotion in Germany to attract more German tourists. Referring to Nepal’s tremendous potential in hydropower, tourism and herb-based industry, he urged for support through diplomatic channels in exploring potentials and inviting joint ventures to Nepal.