3rd December 2024, Kathmandu
Nepal’s Communication Minister, Parbat Gurung, and Information and Technology Minister, Prithvi Subba Gurung, have expressed strong support for TikTok.
Nepal Government Endorses TikTok
They believe it is a safe and effective platform for use in Nepal. Both ministers are confident that the collaboration with TikTok will continue to benefit the country. They emphasized that the positive partnership will strengthen over time.
Social Media’s Role in National Change
Minister Gurung spoke about the significant role social media plays in driving change worldwide. He highlighted its influence on political, economic, and social transformation.
Social media platforms like TikTok are helping shape these changes on a global scale. He pointed out that the same positive impact is expected for Nepal.
The government hopes to harness the power of social media to promote growth and development. This includes advancements in sectors like education, business, and governance.
Nepal’s Vision for IT Development
Minister Gurung shared the government’s ambitious plans for Nepal’s future. He mentioned that Nepal aims to become a global hub for information technology. This vision will focus on developing the country’s IT infrastructure and workforce.
The goal is to create 500,000 direct jobs and more than 1 million indirect jobs in the IT sector. “We have declared the upcoming decade as the IT decade,” Gurung said.
The government plans to fully embrace technology and push for economic growth through IT.
Ensuring Safe Social Media Operations
Both ministers assured the public that the government is committed to ensuring safe social media use. They acknowledged the widespread presence of various platforms operating in Nepal.
However, the government will prioritize safety while allowing platforms like TikTok to operate freely. They assured that all social media platforms would follow proper security measures. This effort aims to create a secure and responsible digital environment in Nepal.
Facing IT Challenges Ahead
Minister Gurung also addressed the challenges that come with the rapid development of technology. He acknowledged that new technologies can bring difficulties, but he assured the public that the government is prepared to tackle these challenges head-on.
Reflecting on past decisions, he mentioned that the previous government had banned TikTok.
However, the current government, under Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, has decided to lift the ban. This shift shows a move toward a more open, secure, and supportive digital space in Nepal.
For more: Nepal Government Endorses TikTok
