Nepal calls on UN to boost support for technology, sustainable tourism

KATHMANDU: Nepal has called on the United Nations to provide assistance in advancing technology and promoting sustainable tourism. This appeal was made by a delegation from the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), currently on a European tour, during a meeting with a UN tourism official in Madrid, Spain.

The delegation, led by Binod Prakash Singh, Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, expressed gratitude for the UN's support to date and requested further collaboration in technology development, particularly in artificial intelligence, digital innovation, and sustainable tourism.

In a recent meeting with Harry Hwang, Director of the Regional Department for Asia and the Pacific at the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), the delegation's visit to the UN Tourism Headquarters was described as historic—the first of its kind. Hwang encouraged Nepal to actively participate in UN tourism initiatives and submit formal proposals outlining priorities for additional assistance.

Narayan Prasad Regmi, Director General of the Department of Tourism, reaffirmed Nepal's commitment to strengthening its partnership with the UN tourism body in order to boost bilateral tourism relations. He emphasised that UN Tourism's support is critical to refining Nepal’s tourism policies, promoting inclusive tourism, and ensuring equitable distribution of tourism benefits.

During discussions, NTB representatives highlighted Nepal’s vast potential in adventure tourism, ecotourism, and rural tourism. "Nepal needs UN projects and extended cooperation to elevate its tourism industry to new heights," they remarked.

Earlier this month, the NTB organised a promotional event in collaboration with the Nepali Embassy in Spain to showcase Nepal’s diverse tourism destinations. The event, aimed at enhancing tourism ties between Nepal and Spain, was attended by travel entrepreneurs and mediapersons. 

Nepal’s Ambassador to Spain, Sanil Nepal, spoke of the enduring relationship between the two nations at the event. Additionally, NTB Senior Manager Khadga Bikram Shah delivered a presentation highlighting Nepal’s natural beauty, adventure tourism, cultural heritage, and hospitality services, suggesting that the country could emerge as a key tourist destination for Spanish nationals.

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