Nepal, Qatar hold talks on economic, tourism cooperation

February 9, Kathmandu: Nepal and Qatar held high-level talks in Kathmandu today to discuss expanded economic cooperation, tourism promotion and enhanced aviation links between the two countries.

The meeting was led by Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Anil Kumar Sinha, and Mishal Mohammed A. Al-Ansari, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Nepal. Delegates also included Chandra Prasad Dhakal, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), and Mohamed bin Ahmed Al Obaidli, Board Member of the Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Officials discussed broadening bilateral cooperation in economic development, tourism promotion and civil aviation. A major focus was on increasing the number of direct flights and adding new destinations, as well as potential partnerships between Nepal Airlines and Qatar Airways.

Minister Sinha said international carriers’ active participation will be essential for full operational capacity at Pokhara International Airport and Gautam Buddha International Airport, and noted the Government of Nepal’s efforts to improve policy and facilitation for tourism, investment and trade.

FNCCI President Dhakal highlighted opportunities for investment in tourism, aviation, hotel and infrastructure sectors. He said Nepal offers attractive prospects in hydropower, tourism, agriculture and services for Qatari investors.

Mohamed bin Ahmed Al Obaidli, representing the Qatar Chamber, underscored the Qatari private sector’s strong interest in long-term economic cooperation with Nepal. He said enhanced aviation and tourism linkages could strengthen trade and people-to-people ties between the two nations.

The talks are expected to contribute to deeper cooperation in economic development and tourism. The Qatari delegation is in Kathmandu for meetings on the Nepal-Qatar Joint Business Council, formed to boost business links between the two countries.