The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, is set to visit Nepal. According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs sources, he will arrive in Nepal on November 6 for a two-day visit. During his stay, he is scheduled to meet with President Ram Chandra Paudel, although other meetings are still being finalized.
This visit holds significant importance as it marks the first time that a head of government and head of state from Qatar, a major labor destination for Nepalis, will be visiting Nepal.
In recent years, two heads of state from Nepal have visited Qatar, as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Minister for Labour, Employment, and Social Security, Sarat Singh Bhandari, revealed that during the Qatari Emir’s visit, several agreements and understandings related to labor matters have been reached between the two countries. Work is currently underway to finalize the drafts of these agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).
The visit is expected to foster a development partnership between Nepal and Qatar. Officials anticipate that Qatar will explore investment opportunities in various development and construction sectors within Nepal. At least eight agreements related to development partnerships have been discussed, with some already finalized.
Nepal has decided to accept Qatar’s development assistance, particularly in the education and health sectors. The assistance will be channeled through the Qatar Fund for Development (QFD), Qatar’s international aid agency. Notably, this marks the first formal assistance from Qatar to Nepal.
During the Emir’s visit, an MoU will be signed, further strengthening the bilateral ties between the two nations.
Additionally, training programs for Nepali professionals are also part of the discussions.
This visit holds promise for both countries, paving the way for enhanced cooperation and mutual benefits.
