KATHMANDU, Sept 22: The Nepal-India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) hosted a farewell reception in Kathmandu on Monday for Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava, whose tenure is coming to an end.
The reception, held at the Marriott Hotel, also marked the departure of Suman Shekhar, outgoing First Secretary (Commerce) at the Embassy of India, and the welcome of his successor, Rishabh Deo.
NICCI President Sunil K.C. highlighted the chamber’s collaboration with Ambassador Srivastava during his tenure, citing initiatives including the Business Climate Survey, Investment Guidebook and Potato Summit.
NICCI office bearers call on Indian Ambassador Srivastava
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Srivastava said Nepal’s hydropower and energy sectors have significant potential for further growth. He also referred to the recent visit of Nepal’s finance minister to India as productive for both countries.
On Nepal’s trade deficit with India, Srivastava said the deficit should not be viewed negatively and expressed the view that growth in the energy sector could improve the trade balance over time.
Shekhar delivered farewell remarks and introduced Deo, who briefly addressed the gathering after assuming his new position.
The event was attended by senior government officials, diplomats, former ambassadors, embassy officials and representatives from Nepal’s business community.
