TikTok and NTB jointly announced a partnership to promote Nepal's extraordinary landscapes

Kathmandu — TikTok and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) jointly announced a partnership today to promote Nepal's extraordinary landscapes, cultural heritage, and adventure experiences to a global audience. The initiative centers on #LifetimeExperiences, a creator-led campaign that will feature a dedicated in-app experience designed to help travelers discover the country's must-see destinations and hidden gems.

NTB and TikTok will work jointly with both local and globally renowned travel creators, inviting and supporting them to explore Nepal and document their journeys through captivating short-form videos that showcase the country's beauty and culture to audiences worldwide. Throughout the campaign, creators will publish content on TikTok, celebrating Nepal's rich natural beauty and its vibrant cultural heritage, including festivals, arts, cuisine, and community traditions, to help inspire future visitors to the country.

NTB will welcome the visiting creators to Nepal and coordinate in-country travel, hospitality, and expert guidance to ensure meaningful access to destinations and communities across Kathmandu valley and beyond. NTB will also invite notable public figures, artists, and cultural ambassadors to participate in campaign moments and events, amplifying the country's message to travelers at home and abroad.

To build momentum locally, TikTok will also partner with the NTB to conduct three capacity-building workshops in Nepal for domestic travel content creators, equipping them with practical skills in digital storytelling, audience growth, and brand collaborations. In parallel, TikTok will also train Nepali small and medium-sized enterprises and tourism operators on how they could effectively use TikTok to showcase their products and services to a wider audience on the platform.

Mr. Deepak Raj Joshi, Chief Executive Officer of the Nepal Tourism Board, said: "This partnership marks an exciting new chapter in how we share Nepal’s story with the world. By combining TikTok’s global reach with our country's immersive and transformative experiences, we are confident that this partnership will inspire more travelers to choose Nepal for their next travel destination."

Ferdous Mottakin, Head of Public Policy and Government Relations, South Asia at TikTok, said: "As a platform for discovery, TikTok is where a global community comes to find travel inspiration, and authentic recommendations for their next adventure. Nepal offers some of the most awe-inspiring natural landscapes and cultural encounters on the planet and we're excited to partner with the NTB to showcase the country's nature and cultural heritage and warm hospitality to the world."

Rolling out through the remainder of 2025, the collaboration will deliver a steady cadence of creator content on TikTok alongside a dedicated #VisitNepal in-app experience. The partnership will culminate in a #VisitNepal event in Kathmandu later this year, bringing together creators, tourism stakeholders, and cultural representatives to highlight and celebrate Nepal as a tourist destination.

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80th Anniversary of Indonesian Independence with a flag hoisting ceremony

Kathmandu-The Office of the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Indonesia in Nepal celebrated the 80th Anniversary of Indonesian Independence with a flag hoisting ceremony held at the IME Complex, Panipokhari, Kathmandu.

Chandra Prasad Dhakal, Honorary Consul of Indonesia in Nepal and Chairman of IME Group, hoisted the iconic red and white flag to commemorate the historic occasion.

In his address, Dhakal highlighted the steadily strengthening diplomatic relations between Nepal and Indonesia, which were formally established in 1960. 

Dhakal who is also the president of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), the appex body of Nepalese private sector, noted that bilateral ties have seen notable progress in recent years, particularly in the areas of trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.

"Both countries are actively engaging in initiatives that promote mutual benefit, including cultural exchanges and tourism collaboration," Dhakal said, emphasizing the shared values and growing cooperation between the two nations.

He further noted that Indonesia, as the largest economy in ASEAN, has emerged as a key trade partner for Nepal and a prominent tourism destination in the region.

Expressing gratitude to the Indonesian community in Nepal, Dhakal acknowledged their presence and participation in the celebration as a symbol of enduring friendship.

“Your presence here today reflects the strength of our relationship and our shared commitment to a prosperous and unified future,” he remarked.

The event underscored Indonesia’s cultural and economic significance and highlighted the potential for deeper collaboration, especially in tourism and commerce. 

With both countries rich in natural and cultural heritage, Dhakal remarked that there is immense scope for expanding business and tourism opportunities.

The ceremony was attended by members of the Indonesian community in Nepal, along with distinguished guests and well-wishers, marking the occasion with warmth, respect, and a renewed commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.

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Global IME Bank Honored with ‘Euromoney Award for Excellence 2025’

Kathmandu-Global IME Bank Limited has been honored with the ‘Best Bank in Nepal – Euromoney Award for Excellence 2025’. 

Established in 1992 by Euromoney Magazine, the Euromoney Awards are regarded as one of the most prestigious recognitions in the global banking and financial industry.

The award has been conferred on Global IME Bank in recognition of its outstanding financial performance, superior service delivery, continuous technological innovation, commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, and its impactful contributions in the field of corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Euromoney Magazine is globally recognized for its in-depth analysis, expert commentary, and critical evaluation of the banking sector. The judging panel comprises highly experienced and reputed professionals from the global financial industry.

With this year’s recognition, Global IME Bank has been named the Best Bank by Euromoney for the third time, having previously received the Euromoney Award for Excellence in 2022 and 2024 as well.

In addition to this year’s accolade, the bank has also been honored with the Global Finance’s Best Bank Award in 2024 and 2025, along with two categories under the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2024, reaffirming its position as Nepal’s leading financial institution.

Furthermore, Global IME Bank has received several national and international recognitions across various categories from reputable organizations, reflecting its commitment to excellence and innovation.

Global IME Bank is the first private commercial bank in Nepal to establish its presence in all 77 districts of the country.

The bank currently operates over 1,000 service footprints, including 352 branches, 384 ATMs, 155 branchless banking units, 68 extension and revenue collection counters, and 3 international representative offices, delivering Robust banking services to a wide customer base.

In addition to providing excellent banking services, the bank also facilitates remittance services from various countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, India, Jordan, and many others, thereby contributing to Nepal’s remittance inflow.

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Nepal–China Friendship: A Symbol of Stability and Shared Prosperity

K P Sharma Oli

It is both an honour and a pleasure to be with you today as we celebrate a special occasion—the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and the People’s Republic of China. I sincerely thank His Excellency the Ambassador for hosting this meaningful gathering.

Seventy years ago, our two nations embarked on a formal journey of friendship. On this Platinum Jubilee, I extend my warm greetings to our friends in both Nepal and China. This anniversary invites reflection. Over the decades, our relationship has grown stronger, grounded in mutual trust and guided by shared values.

The Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence have long anchored our engagement. In times of joy and in moments of difficulty, we have stood by each other.

Our bond draws strength from deep civilisational roots and cultural closeness. It is enriched by mutual respect and strengthened by people-to-people ties.

Nepal firmly adheres to the One China Principle. In return, China has consistently respected Nepal’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence. We deeply value this time-tested friendship—with China as both a close neighbour and a trusted development partner.

There have been many milestones along this journey.

The state visit of His Excellency President Xi Jinping to Nepal in 2019 was historic. It elevated our bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership of Cooperation, Featuring Ever-lasting Friendship for Development and Prosperity.

I also fondly recall my own official visit to China in December 2024. During that visit, I held meaningful discussions with senior Chinese leaders.

Together, we reaffirmed our commitment to deepen our cooperation. The signing of the Belt and Road Cooperation Framework reflected our shared resolve to enhance connectivity and partnership.

China’s support in infrastructure and connectivity has played a vital role in helping Nepal overcome its geographic constraints.

Our collaboration continues to expand—in agriculture, trade, transit, energy, health, digital technology, and climate resilience—unlocking new possibilities for progress.

As the world confronts a growing climate crisis, Nepal welcomes deeper cooperation with China to protect our shared Himalayas and fragile ecosystems.

The first-ever Sagarmatha Sambaad, held earlier this year, marked a step forward in this direction. The recent flash floods in the Lhende (ल्हेन्दे) River caused heavy destruction on both sides of our border. It reminds us of the urgent need for joint efforts in disaster preparedness, early warning, and sustainable mountain development.

We also recognise and commend China’s remarkable achievements in national rejuvenation. Its success in lifting hundreds of millions out of poverty, and its rise as a leader in innovation, sustainability, and global cooperation, is truly inspiring.

These achievements benefit not only China, but also contribute to regional stability and global progress.

They resonate deeply with Nepal’s own national aspiration: “Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali.”

In an uncertain world, the enduring friendship between Nepal and China stands as a symbol of stability, solidarity, and shared hope.

We look forward to building further on this strong foundation—by expanding cooperation, deepening connections, and forging new paths for mutual benefit.

Let us walk this journey together, with trust and goodwill.

May the friendship between Nepal and China continue to grow—stronger, deeper, and ever more meaningful in the years to come.

Remarks by Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli at the reception hosted by H. E. Mr. Chen Song, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Nepal, on the occasion of the 70^th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Nepal and the People’s Republic of China

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Need for Specialized Financial Institutions for Agricultural Transformation

Kathmandu — Former Finance Minister and Economic Development Advisor to the Government of Nepal, Dr. Yubaraj Khatiwada, has emphasized the need for specialized financial institutions dedicated to the development and transformation of the agricultural sector.

Speaking at the 24th anniversary celebration of Small Farmers Development Microfinance Financial Institution Limited held in the capital on Sunday, he highlighted the necessity of institutions specifically working for the expansion and modernization of agriculture.

Recalling the significant role played by Small Farmers Development Microfinance in engaging small farmers in agriculture, livestock, and income-generating activities, Dr. Khatiwada argued that microfinance institutions must focus on linking their programs with production-oriented activities, or risk long-term sustainability challenges.

He expressed satisfaction over the way Small Farmers Microfinance has worked as a model in this regard, stating that institutions should not only disburse loans but also ensure that members can generate income from the loans they receive.

He noted that due to the institution’s demonstrated effectiveness and the proper utilization of government support, even international agencies have developed confidence in collaborating with it.

Recalling the abundant opportunities for enterprise and income generation through agriculture and livestock in Nepal, Dr. Khatiwada stressed the importance of shifting from individual to group-based production and income generation models.

He pointed out that markets for meat products such as buffalo and pork from Nepal have already reached third countries, and by ensuring market guarantees and promoting the production of healthy livestock, farmers' incomes could significantly increase.

“For this, specialized financial institutions with targeted programs are needed,” he said, encouraging Small Farmers Microfinance to move further ahead in this direction.

Dr. Khatiwada also suggested that alongside production and marketing, institutions should now focus on storage, processing, packaging, and branding to further uplift farmers' incomes.

Addressing issues in the cooperative and small savings sector, he noted that irregularities in cooperative institutions have increased in recent times due to deviations from cooperative principles. However, he expressed confidence that these problems would gradually be resolved.

To tackle rising financial irregularities, Nepal Rastra Bank’s Bank and Financial Institutions Regulation Department has already implemented new ‘Savings and Credit Cooperatives Guidelines 2081’ effective from Chaitra 21, 2081 B.S.

At the program, institutional chairman Khem Bahadur Pathak acknowledged problems in some cooperatives due to poor institutional governance. He noted that challenges arose when directors and staff failed to stick to their defined responsibilities, even as a nationwide campaign is underway to address such issues. He highlighted that cooperatives can positively impact communities and that reform must begin from within.

Small Farmers Development Microfinance currently works with 1,710 partner institutions across 77 districts, reaching 22 lakh families and 88 lakh members, providing wholesale credit, capacity building, technology transfer, and support for youth entrepreneurship.

Chairman Pathak also shared that the institution has successfully included historically marginalized communities such as Dom, Chamar, Musahar, Harijan, Dhobi, Dhawal, Chidimar, Pattharkat, Paswan, Chepang, Bankariya, and Raute.

At the anniversary event, CEO Dr. Shivaram Prasad Koirala remarked that cooperatives and microfinance institutions with honest leadership face no major obstacles. He cited examples of institutions overcoming financial challenges and even distributing profits to members, asserting that Small Farmers Agriculture Cooperatives continue to deliver commendable results despite difficulties.

Nepal’s Small Farmers Development Project began in 2032/33 B.S., and in 2058 B.S. it was established as Small Farmers Development Microfinance Financial Institution Ltd., previously registered as Small Farmers Development Bank. Its founding shareholders include the Government of Nepal, Agricultural Development Bank, Nepal Bank, Nabil Bank Limited, and other banks, financial institutions, and 231 small farmer cooperatives.

The institution currently has a paid-up capital of NPR 4.31 billion, with 38.9% owned by banks and financial institutions, 27.45% by small farmer cooperatives, 2.36% by international financial institutions, 30.06% by citizens, and 1.23% by others.

In addition, there are 902 small farmer cooperatives, 808 other cooperatives and microfinance institutions, totaling 1,710 partner institutions.

Its target groups include Dalits, indigenous nationalities, marginalized communities, and poor small farmers, who have achieved notable success in livestock, fish farming, poultry, vegetable farming, and high-value crops through the institution’s financial support.

On the occasion, awards were presented to the best-performing branches and partner institutions across different categories. The awardees included Nepalgunj branch as the best branch office, Taratal Small Farmers Agricultural Cooperative from Bardiya as the best national-level partner cooperative, Matribhoomi Microfinance Financial Institution as the best partner microfinance institution, Hami Nepal Savings and Credit Cooperative Limited from Jhapa as the best cooperative institution, and Bhagwati Kalapani Small Farmers Agricultural Cooperative Limited from Kavre as the best Kathmandu branch-level partner institution.

Additionally, Thakur Shrestha (office assistant) and Gun Bahadur Gidel (driver) were also honored for their contributions.

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