Saudi Gazette

JEDDAH — After promulgation of the new constitution in Nepal, the major national agenda has been shifted from political stability to sustainable and rapid economic, social development of the country, according to a Nepalese diplomat.

Three years have passed since Nepal promulgated its new constitution with spirit of democracy, according to him.

To mark the third anniversary of the historic event of their country, which is known as Asoj, its National Day and also as Constitution Day to commemorate the promulgation of the Nepal Constitution, a special ceremony was held by Nepalese Consulate here.

The event was attended by Saudi Foreign Ministry’s Makkah region Director Jamal Balkhoyour and diplomatic fraternity based in Jeddah and Nepali entrepreneurs, community leaders.

On the occasion, in his remarks, Revati Raman Paudel, acting consul general highlighted Nepal’s efforts for effective implementation of the Constitution of Nepal, including the adoption of many organic laws, and the recently held elections at various levels. Expressing happiness at the opportunity to celebrate the day as a national festival, he said that, it addressed seven decades of the aspirations of Nepalese to have a constitution written by their representatives.

Hailing the key role played by Kingdom in regional and global affairs under dynamic leadership of Custodian of Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman, the consul general said that Nepal is one of the well-wisher and good friend of Saudi Arabia.

He said that a great prospect of economic cooperation exists between Kingdom and Nepal, which needs to be further strengthened.

Nepal consul general said that his country is working to attract 2 million tourists a year as per Nepal Vision 2020, with the tourism sector yet to be explored and tapped by the Saudi side.

Paudel said that contacts between people to people have been growing in last few years and said that an estimated 400,000 Nepalese are working in Kingdom, who have been welcomed by Saudi employers as result of their dedication to work and integrity.

He also said that his Himalayan country is sending about 1,200 pilgrims for Haj annually.

He said that since the establishment of diplomatic relations from 1977, Nepal and Saudi Arabia have been enjoying healthy relations and marching towards prosperity.

The consulate also utilized the occasion to promote Nepal’s tourism, trade and culture. With the objective of promoting Nepal’s tourism, large-framed photographs of main tourist destinations and banners were displayed at the venue.

A video of Nepal’s main tourist attractions and products was played on the screen throughout the program. Nepali handicrafts and pashmina products were on display. Nepalese nationals in traditional Nepali costumes, representing diversified Nepali cultural and ethnic communities, added beauty and color to the program.