Austrian President felicitates Rajesh Babu Shrestha

KATHMANDU, May 09:The President of Austria has felicitated Rajesh Babu Shrestha, the honorary consul of the Federal Republic of Austria for Nepal. Shrestha was awarded the prestigious 'Decoration of Honour in Silver' in recognition of his service. This is an honour given by the Austrian state.

Katharina Wieser, Ambassador of the Republic of Austria to Nepal, presented the medel to Nepal's Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Narayankaji Shrestha at a ceremony in Kathmandu. 

Mr. Laxman babu Shrestha, the then honorary consul of the Federal Republic of Austria for Nepal, was presented with the 'Decoration of Honour in Gold' by the Austrian government earlier in 2013.

In his speech at the felicitated ceremony, Shrestha stated that, while Nepal and Austria share geographical characteristics, the Himalayas, and a hospitality history, Austria has made significant economic success. In terms of establishing economic development, he believes Nepal can learn a lot from Austria.

He stated that Nepal can benefit greatly from Austria's experience in tourism, tunnels and mountain infrastructure, hydropower, and sustainable energy. On that occasion, Shrestha also recalled Austria's assistance to Nepal, particularly in the areas of reconstruction and cultural asset protection.

"Dream Garden and Patan Museum at Keshar Mahal are concrete examples of this," Shrestha said, adding that "even during the Covid-19 pandemic, Austria has generously supported Nepal." In the latest aid, Austria has provided 400,000 Pfizer vaccines to Nepal.

The vaccine given by Austria was delivered to Nepal via the European Union as part of the United Nations Kovacs program. Nepal and Austria have had cordial diplomatic relations for 64 years. 

During the occasion, Austrian Ambassador to Nepal Katharina Wieser praised the honorary consul's assistance. Manakamana Darshan Pvt Ltd's Managing Director is Shrestha.