KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has stated that the government will work confidently in the efforts meant for building economically prosperous, well governed, developed and corruption-free society.

"The nation has achieved the political stability and it will confidently work to explore ways for development without getting engaged in unnecessary affairs," he said, hoping to get support and cooperation from every quarter to this regard.

Inaugurating the second cooperative general convention organised by the National Cooperative Federation of Nepal here today, the head of the government said the government had already started works on its plan for achieving the sustainable development goals by 2030 AD.

"Current situation of nation's economy is not favourable, situation is tougher and the government accords its priority to end such situation forever," he said underlining the need of fiscal discipline in the country.

"The government will move ahead with the support and cooperation from the two close neighbours, taking them into confidence and it has received a positive response from them," the Prime Minister further said.

He took the time to make it clear that talks highlighting the importance of social justice and equity would not invite totalitarianism in the nation. "The federal democratic republic system in Nepal was not gifted by anyone else; it was possible due to people's suffering and sacrifice, instead."

Representatives from the SAARC countries, Japan and Indonesia are taking part in the two-day event which will discuss achievements of cooperative movement, possible roles of cooperatives in achieving the SDGs and future course of action required for further promotion of cooperative sector.

Also speaking on the occasion, Finance Minister Dr Yubaraj Khatiwada stressed on the need of quality and quantity development of cooperative sector at an equal footing. He pledged to create atmosphere so that cooperatives could make additional investment in the areas of tourism, agriculture and hydropower.

Minister for Agriculture, Land Management and Cooperatives, Chakrapani Khanal, said that the rules and bylaws were under the amendment process to make the cooperative sector stronger and added that cooperatives should be linked with production. The Minister said that the Ministry had been doing homework to attract cooperatives in agro sector.

Likewise, Minister of State for Agriculture, Land Management and Cooperatives, Ram Kumari Chaudhary, pointed out the need of further promoting the cooperative sector as a means of alleviating poverty.

Similarly, Secretary at the Ministry, Gopinath Mainali said that the cooperative sector should be strengthened in days ahead as it has a significant contribution to national economy.

Chairperson of the Federation, Keshav Badal demanded the government to introduce the cooperative rules and bylaws as soon as possible.