Kathmandu: Nepal has formally requested the United Nations (UN) to support the development of technology and sustainable tourism in the country. This request was made by a delegation from the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) during a meeting with UN tourism officials in Madrid as part of their ongoing Europe trip.
The delegation, led by Binod Prakash Singh, Secretary at Nepal’s Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, acknowledged the support the UN has provided to Nepal thus far. Singh emphasized the need for further collaboration, particularly in advancing technology, such as artificial intelligence and digital innovation, to promote sustainable tourism development.
In a historic first visit to the UN Tourism Headquarters, the delegation met with Harry Hwang, Director of the Regional Department for Asia and the Pacific at the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Hwang reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to continue cooperating with Nepal and encouraged the country to actively participate in UN tourism initiatives. He also urged Nepal to submit formal proposals outlining its priorities for additional UN support.
Dr. Narayan Prasad Regmi, Director General of Nepal’s Department of Tourism, reiterated the nation’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the UN tourism body, focusing on promoting bilateral tourism relations.
The NTB representatives highlighted Nepal’s vast potential for adventure tourism, eco-tourism, and rural tourism. They stressed the importance of UN-led projects to elevate the country’s tourism industry and ensure that tourism benefits are distributed equitably across the country.
In addition to the meeting with UN officials, the NTB also organized a promotional event in collaboration with the Nepali Embassy in Spain. The event aimed to enhance tourism relations between Nepal and Spain, and was attended by tourism entrepreneurs and media personnel. During the event, Nepal’s Ambassador to Spain, Sanil Nepal, highlighted the long-standing relationship between the two countries.
Khadga Bikram Shah, Senior Manager at NTB, gave a presentation showcasing Nepal’s natural beauty, adventurous tourism opportunities, cultural heritage, and hospitality services. He suggested that Nepal could become a major tourist destination for Spaniards, further strengthening tourism ties between the two nations.