Nepal Foreign Affairs (KATHMANDU, 15 June 2019) – Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli said on Friday that though Nepal and France were geographically far apart, they had many things in common.
Delivering keynote remarks at a welcome programme hosted in his honour by the Mayor of Chamoniz in Chamonix, France, Prime Minister Oli said that mountains and mountaineering culture were integral aspects of the two countries sharing the way of life in both the countries.
“French alpinists and mountaineers are among those who are increasingly attracted to strengthening people to people relations, thus providing a solid foundation to our friendship,” PM Oli stated. He further said that mountains for Nepalis were not only the subjects of natural fascination but also identity makers and protectors of Nepal’s image.
“Unfortunately, these precious resources of mankind have come under serious threat in the wake of growing phenomenon of climate change. This has not only damaged the pristine nature but also badly affected the lives of millions of people living downstream,” he said.
On the bilateral relations, Prime Minister Oli said he felt immensely pleased, mentioning that France was the fourth country with which Nepal established diplomatic relations seven decades ago.
“We are pleased that, with the continued exchange of visits and exchange of views and ideas at people to people levels, the relations between the two countries have further deepened and widened,” Oli said.
He further said that the priority of his government was to enhance economic relations befitting the excellent relations at political and cultural levels.
On the occasion, Oli urged the French to visit Nepal, adding, “If you have already done so, consider going there for the second time or more, as our tourism motto is, ‘Naturally Nepal once is not enough’.”He further informed that Nepal was launching ‘Visit Nepal 2020 Campaign’ with an aim to welcoming two million tourists.