Nepal and Qatar ink multiple agreements strengthening bilateral ties

KATHMANDU: Kathmandu played host to a landmark bilateral meeting on Wednesday, where Nepal and Qatar solidified their partnership through the signing of several crucial agreements.

The high-level gathering, held at the prestigious Soaltee Hotel, saw the culmination of discussions into eight significant deals, marking a pivotal moment in the diplomatic relationship between the two nations.

Led by Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and Nepal’s Prime Minister, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, the delegation-level meeting saw the formalization of six government-level agreements and two agreements involving the private sector.

Among the highlights of the signed agreements are memorandums of understanding (MoUs) covering diverse fields. These include cooperation in culture and arts, education, higher education, and scientific research.

Additionally, agreements were reached in the areas of youth and sports, diplomatic training and education, and legal cooperation between respective attorney general offices.

Furthermore, the renewal of the MoU between Qatar Chamber and the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FNCCI) underscores the commitment to fostering robust economic ties between the two nations.

Additionally, the establishment of a Joint Business Council (JBC) aims to facilitate enhanced collaboration and investment opportunities for businesses from both countries.

Noteworthy among the signed agreements is the Agreement on Cooperation and Exchange of News between the National News Agency, Nepal (RSS), and Qatar News Agency (QNA). This agreement is poised to foster greater information exchange and collaboration between the media agencies of both countries.

The Qatari Emir’s visit to Nepal, spanning two days, served as the backdrop for these momentous agreements.

Originally scheduled for November 6 and 7 the previous year, the visit was postponed due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly the conflict between Israel and Hamas militants.

This visit marks the first high-level engagement between Nepal and Qatar, symbolizing a new chapter in their bilateral relations. Qatar, a host to approximately 400,000 Nepali migrant workers, holds significant economic and strategic importance for Nepal.

As the ink dries on these agreements, both Nepal and Qatar look forward to a strengthened partnership that promises mutual growth and prosperity. The agreements pave the way for deeper cooperation across various sectors, fostering enduring ties between the two nations.