Princess Astrid for promoting Nepal-Belgium economic relations

(Prakash Silwal)

Princess Astrid of Belgium, who is currently in Nepal visit, has said she would take initiative to further strengthen the economic relations between Nepal and Belgium by promoting trade, investment and tourism.

During a courtesy call on Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Ishwor Pokhrel at Singha Durbar on Tuesday, DPM Pokhrel expressed happiness over Princess Astrid’s visit to Nepal at a time when Nepal is marking the Visit Year 2020. On the occasion, he informed that Nepal has entered the state of political stability and prioritized foreign investment cooperation for its campaign of prosperity.

Nepal and Belgium have been enjoying intimate and friendly relations for long, he said, adding that it could be expanded further via trade, investment and tourism development. "Belgium is one of the important friendly countries from the EU, so Nepal has attached high importance to the relations with it," he reminded.

The DPM thanked Belgium for providing assistance to the treatment of tuberculosis and leprosy in Nepal.

On the occasion, the Belgian Princess also said Belgium and Nepal are good friends for long. She expressed happiness over the political stability Nepal has witnessed in the recent days. Princess Astrid assured that the assistance her Foundation was providing to Nepal and other countries in collaboration with WHO was resulting in achievements, so it would be continued in the days ahead.

Princess Astrid, who is on a five day visit to Nepal, is scheduled to visit Kailali, Nawalparasi and Chitwan.

Nepal and Belgium had established diplomatic ties in August 1963.