Saarc conclave kicks off in Nepal today
The fourth edition of Saarc Business Leaders Conclave (SBLC) begins in Kathmandu today with a focus on regional connectivity and strengthening relations.
The Saarc Chamber of Commerce and Industry is hosting the programme in collaboration with the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI).
The event is aimed at creating synergies for regional integration and cooperation through effective networking of business community. The theme of the conclave is "Peace and Prosperity through Regional Connectivity".
"Not only the connectivity, the meet will also emphasise strengthening hear-to-heart relationship of the people of Saarc countries," said Syed Nurul Islam, general assembly member of Saarc chamber.
Islam said the meeting will focus on issues related to tariff and non-tariff barriers and it will be the starting point of dialogue for zero-tariff movement.
“There was no discussion among Saarc member countries for long and this meeting will help minimise the gap,” he said.
Commerce Minister Faruk Khan and State Minister for Forest and Environment Hasan Mahmud will also attend the conclave.
The SBLC is expected to be participated by more than 400 visitors, including businesspeople, representatives from governments, academia and development partners and from Saarc countries.
Nepalese Prime Minister Jhala Nath Khanal will attend the inaugural session as the chief guest. It will be held at Soaltee Hotel.
Prime Minister of Kingdom of Bhutan Lyonchhen Jigmi Y Thinley, Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed, Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari will also address the inaugural session.
Saarc chamber President Annisul Huq will deliver the welcome address. Though the event was originally scheduled to be held in Bangladesh, FNCCI requested the Saarc chamber to let them organise it in Nepal.
Organisers think the event will also help promote Nepal Tourism Year 2011 campaign.
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