Published On:  August 20, 2019 04:00 AM NPT By: Republica

Shova Gyawali-led new executive committee formed

KATHMANDU, Aug 20: Nepal-Philippines Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NPCCI) has vowed to work toward facilitating trade, educational and tourist ties between Nepal and the Philippines.

Speaking at the third Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the NPCCI on Sunday, the newly-elected Chairperson of the chamber Shova Gyawali said that mutual cooperation between the two countries will help develop and expand the industries and trade sectors of both countries.

A 13-member new executive committee chaired by Gyawali was formed through the AGM.

"The new committee will try to moderate and enhance educational, cultural, trade and economic relations between the two countries, along with the promotion of tourism," she said, adding: "The representatives of the organization will focus on the promotion of contact and assistance among industries, traders and other businesspersons of Nepal and the Philippines."

"The new committee will focus on exploring new opportunities and avenues of business cooperation between the two countries. It will ensure that the organization's objectives are fully met and the relationship between entrepreneurs of both countries will be further strengthened," she further added. "Tourists from the Philippines will be encouraged to come to Nepal for VNY 2020."

Secretary-General Lucy Thapa informed about the NPCCI's contribution to the expansion of ties between Nepal and the Philippines. "The countries have educational and trade relationships, and the organization will work as a bridge to further connect the two countries in this regard," she said. "The new body will ensure enhanced cultural and economic exchanges between the countries."

Consul General of the Philippines to Nepal, Suraj Vaidya, said that over 2,000 Nepalis have acquired educational degrees from the Philippines. He said the organization will focus on the development of tourism between the two countries.

Kushan Pradhan has been elected as the senior vice-president in the new executive committee, Nancy Thapa as the junior vice president, Lucy Thapa as the secretary-general, Sheila Mae Manto as the joint secretary, and Samir Ojha as the treasurer. Janaki Gurung, Saru Aryal, Rama Kandel, Rabindra Dahal, Shirley Sitaula, Suav Zuwa, and Marivic Gurung have been elected as the board members.