Govt. committed to supporting travel industry: PM Prachanda

By TRN Online, Kathmandu, June 6: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' has assured that the government is committed to supporting travel industry.

"The Government of Nepal is fully committed to supporting the travel industry, improving infrastructure, and empowering entrepreneurs to provide competitive services," said PM Prachanda in his inaugural speech at the 4th Himalayan Travel Mart (HTM 2023).

He said tourism in Nepal is such a sector in which low investment gives high return.

With low investment requirements, high returns, and minimal environmental impact, tourism industry presents multifarious opportunities for investors and visitors in Nepal, viewed the PM.

While we recognize the immense potential of our tourism industry, we also acknowledge that there is much more to be done. Tourism is our top priority, and we are investing in infrastructure development, embracing digital technology, prioritizing sustainability and social responsibility, and inviting the global community to invest in various sectors, PM Prachanda said.

Prime Minister Prachanda made it clear that the government's aim 'is to position Nepal as a globally competitive and unique travel destination'.

To achieve this vision, we have recently declared Tourism Decade, 2023-2032. Similarly, we have outlined key priorities, including enhancing infrastructure, upgrading transportation facilities, implementing policy reforms, strengthening the aviation sector, fostering private sector collaborations, and promoting sustainable tourism practices, said the Prime Minister.

Here is the full text of the inaugural speech of Prime Minister Prachanda at the HTM 2023:

Chair person of the program,

Your Excellences,

Members of the Diplomatic Diaspora,

Speakers, Delegates,

Friends of the Media, and Tourism Professionals of PATA Nepal Student Chapter, 

Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Namaste and Good Evening.

I am honored to welcome you all to the 4th Himalayan Travel Mart (HTM 2023) in the beautiful city of Kathmandu, Nepal. On behalf of the Government of Nepal, I extend a warm welcome to Excellences, Government Officials, Thought Leaders, Speakers, Global Buyers, Sellers, Travel Bloggers, Friends of the Media, and Delegates from around the globe.

This event, taking place from June 6th to 9th, 2023, has become a significant platform for promoting tourism in Nepal and the entire Himalayan region.  Nepal, known as the "Gateway to the Himalayas," is proud to showcase its diverse offerings to the global travel community.

Nepal is blessed with unparalleled natural beauty, cultural heritage, adventure tourism products, and genuine services. The hospitality of our people ensures that travelers have unforgettable experiences tailored to their needs and interests.

Additionally, it holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Lord Buddha, representing a spiritual awakening and exemplifying our unity in diversity. From breathtaking landscapes to diverse flora and fauna, Nepal offers attractions that cater to the desires of mindful travelers.

Nepal is not just an adventure tourism destination but also a stop for abundance of tangible and intangible treasures. We have rich cultural heritage, stunning art and architecture, pilgrimage sites, yoga and meditation retreats, and holistic wellness centers. Throughout the year, visitors are enticed by the allure of these diverse offerings.

Nepal, located between the emerging economic giants of India and China, boasts unique natural beauty and a warm and friendly population. Nepal is committed to focusing on All people, All Season Tourism.

While we recognize the immense potential of our tourism industry, we also acknowledge that there is much more to be done. Tourism is our top priority, and we are investing in infrastructure development, embracing digital technology, prioritizing sustainability and social responsibility, and inviting the global community to invest in various sectors. With low investment requirements, high returns, and minimal environmental impact, tourism industry presents multifarious opportunities for investors and visitors in Nepal.

Our aim is to position Nepal as a globally competitive and unique travel destination. To achieve this vision, we have recently declared Tourism Decade, 2023-2032. Similarly, we have outlined key priorities, including enhancing infrastructure, upgrading transportation facilities, implementing policy reforms, strengthening the aviation sector, fostering private sector collaborations, and promoting sustainable tourism practices. The drafting of Sixteenth Periodic Plan is underway. Out of the focus areas will be mainstreamed on regenerative tourism, community engagement, and positioning itself as a conscious destination.

The Government of Nepal is fully committed to supporting the travel industry, improving infrastructure, and empowering entrepreneurs to provide competitive services.

Tourism sector is adversely affected by a slight distortion in global economy, global peace and cooperation. Similarly, it is hard hit by Global pandemic and prone to the effects of alarming global climate crisis. It is high time to raise voices against the effects of climate change to the global community that Nepal  is facing on Tourism Industry.

In the aftermath of the global pandemic, the concerted efforts and global collaboration of the PATA Nepal Chapter, Nepal Tourism Board, Nepal Airlines, and other prominent associations have been instrumental. With their unwavering commitment, we firmly believe that the Himalayan Travel Mart will continue to set a new benchmark for post-pandemic tourism recovery, marketing, and promotion of Nepal's tourism sector. The HTM serves as an excellent platform for stakeholders in the tourism industry to converge, exchange ideas, share experiences, and explore innovative ways to further enhance the growth of this highly promising sector.

I extend my warm wishes to all participants for a productive and fruitful event. Let us join hands to work towards our common goals of achieving sustainable and responsible tourism development, not only in Nepal but throughout the entire Himalayan region and the world.

With great enthusiasm and optimism, I am confident that the Himalayan Travel Mart 2023 will be a resounding success.

Thank you once again for your precious presence, and I extend my best wishes for your enjoyable stay here in Nepal.

Thank You.

Pushpa Kamal Dahal

Right Honorable Prime Minister

Government of Nepal