Dhakal Highlights Vital Role Of Honorary Consuls in Nepal’s Economic Growth
23rd July 2025, Kathmandu
Chandra Prasad Dhakal, Dean of the Honorary Consular Corps–Nepal (HCC-N), has said that Honorary consuls are active agents of Nepal’s economic diplomacy.
Dhakal Highlights Vital Role
“We are not just ceremonial figures. We are active, capable, and committed contributors to Nepal’s diplomacy and development,” Dhakal said while addressing the 18th General Assembly and Charter Day of HCC-N in Kathmandu.
He stressed that the importance of economic diplomacy is growing rapidly in today’s interconnected world.
“Economic diplomacy is no longer an option—it is a necessity in today’s globalized world,” he added.
Dhakal, who also chairs the IME Group and leads the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to support Nepal’s national interests. As Nepal moves toward graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category, he urged honorary consuls to act as “voluntary envoys” for economic transformation.
He expressed confidence that HCC-N is more united and aligned with national priorities than ever before. He also highlighted the partnership between HCC-N and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and shared that groundwork has been laid for Nepal’s first-ever Economic Summit, in collaboration with FNCCI.
Dhakal recalled the workshop held in Chandragiri with the Ministry, where honorary consuls committed to promoting foreign investment, innovation, trade, tourism, and diaspora engagement.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, who was the chief guest at the event, appreciated the growing role of honorary consuls in promoting Nepal’s economic diplomacy.
She said honorary consuls can serve as important bridges between Nepal and the international community, particularly in attracting trade, tourism, and investment.
Former UN Under Secretary General Gyan Chandra Acharya delivered the keynote speech and emphasized the need to integrate diplomacy with development through coordinated efforts.
Dhakal formally handed over the Deanship to Bhola Bikram Thapa, Honorary Consul of Bulgaria. The event was attended by government officials, diplomats, and members of the consular community.
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