Himalayan News Service

Kathmandu, May 7:

Former foreign minister Dr Bhekh Bahadur Thapa said today that the country was gradually losing its reputation in recent years due to violence and unrest.

“Nepal is losing its old image and has not been able to gain a new reputation,” Thapa said at a talk programme organised by the Kathmandu Jaycees to mark the closing ceremony of the Jaycees Week.

“This is what I am feeling in recent years, especially when I was ambassador-at-large and foreign minister. Foreigners used to honour Nepalis until some years

ago, but now we have become the character of sympathy and pity,” Thapa said, adding: “They might take us as harmful people after some years.”

He said the world’s diplomacy entered into a new phase due to growing concerns over human rights and revolution in the field of mass media.

Dr Mohan Man Sainju, vice-chairman of the Poverty Alleviation Fund, said holistic approach is needed to reduce poverty.

“Youth’s integrated effort is the need of the hour for the country’s socio-economic development,” he said.

He added: “Empowerment, social mobilisation, income generation projects and infrastructure development and local development should be the core factors while talking about the role of youths in community development.”

Dipendra Purush Dhakal, former government secretary and former governor of the Nepal Rastra Bank, said youths should be mobilised to develop the country.