PM Oli addresses AIT, stresses collective efforts for a secure and prosperous future

April 3, Kathmandu: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, speaking at a program organized by the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in Thailand on Thursday, emphasized the need for collective efforts to ensure a secure and prosperous future for humanity. The address took place during his official visit to Thailand and participation in the Sixth Summit of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) in Bangkok.

Prime Minister Oli, who is leading Nepal’s delegation, highlighted the government’s commitment to human well-being, prosperity, security, and dignity. Explaining Nepal’s national aspiration of “Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali,” he stated that there is no greater pursuit in the world than human happiness and well-being. He called for unified action on pressing global issues such as climate change, urging the international community to work together.

Addressing an audience that included Nepali professors and students, PM Oli underscored the importance of modern agricultural development and the production of skilled human resources for the 21st century. He expressed confidence that AIT graduates could significantly contribute to Nepal’s development, particularly in areas like water resources management.

In a notable announcement, PM Oli pledged USD 100,000 to a fund established by AIT for research, studies, and scholarships in Nepal, reinforcing the strong ties between Nepal and the institute. Nepal’s Ambassador to Thailand, Dhan Bahadur Oli, noted that Nepal ranks fourth among countries with the highest number of students at AIT, making collaboration with the institute a priority. Currently, 181 Nepali students are enrolled at AIT, with 1,795 having graduated to date. The institute’s Board of Trustees includes three Nepali members, and seven Nepali faculty members serve on its staff.

The Prime Minister, accompanied by First Lady Radhika Shakya, was warmly welcomed by AIT President Prof. Pai-Chi Li and other officials. This visit marks PM Oli’s first official trip to Thailand, undertaken at the cordial invitation of Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Later on Thursday, PM Oli is scheduled to hold sideline meetings with heads of state and government from BIMSTEC member countries during the summit.

The Nepali delegation includes prominent figures such as First Lady Radhika Shakya, Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister Bishnu Prasad Rimal, Economic and Development Advisor Dr. Yubaraj Khatiwada, Chief Secretary Ek Narayan Aryal, and Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai.