Kathmandu, March 8: Vice-president Nanda Bahadur Pun has pointed out the need to increase the capacity of women for their qualitative participation.

Addressing a function organised by Nepal Chamber of Commerce to mark the 111th International Women's Day here today, he said that women's empowerment is associated with the development of any country.    

Emphasizing the need on for equality especially in the education and economic sectors, Vice-president Pun called for promotion of women's entrepreneurship for economic prosperity of the country. Stating that it was a matter of pride that the representation of women has increased in various organs and agencies of the State, the Vice-president however expressed concern over the failure to stop incidents of violence against women.

"Hence on the occasion of International Women's Day we need to move ahead with the determination to end all kinds of violence against women," he said.    

Ambassador of the EU delegation to Nepal Nona Deprez called for attention of all sides for qualitative participation and capacity building of women in the country.    

Chamber President Rajesh Kaji Shrestha, Women Chamber President of the NCC Urmila Shrestha and other speakers also shed light on the relevance of the international women's day.    

On the occasion, Vice-president Pun gave away awards for the outstanding women entrepreneurs recognized by the Chamber. Those honoured included Aditi Goyal in 'IT and Innovation' category, Radha Laxmi Shrestha in 'Business Motivation', Kankai women's group in 'Agro entrepreneurship', Krishna Rana in social entrepreneurship and Rekha Chaudhary Sharma as the best women entrepreneur award.