NCC request Pakistan envoy to establish direct air service between both countries

KATHMANDU, July 26:The Nepal Chamber of Commerce has requested the newly appointed Pakistani ambassador to Nepal, Abrar Hussain Hashmi, to initiate direct air connectivity between the two countries to facilitate trade and increase tourism activities.

Speaking at a meeting held at the capital on Tuesday, NCC Chairman Rajendra Malla laid emphasis on immediately establishing air connectivity between the two countries for the growth of trade, tourism exchange, and expansion of other economic and commercial activities.

Chairman Malla urged the ambassador to take initiatives from the government level to operate air services between the two countries and to cooperate in the private sector as well. "The air distance between Nepal and Pakistan is only three hours, if it can be utilized, trade between the two countries can be increased and tourism can be expanded. As SAARC member countries, both countries can benefit by increasing many other economic activities," he said.

An average of 4,000 tourists from Pakistan visit Nepal every year.During the meeting, Pakistani Ambassador to Nepal Hashmi also said that there should be an initiative from the government to operate the air service. He said that the areas of economic potential should be identified between Nepal and Pakistan in order to benefit both countries.

Ambassador Hasmi said that he would take initiatives for the expansion of business activities by conducting discussions between the officials of the Chamber of Commerce between the two countries.