Bhaktapur: President Ramchandra Paudel has emphasized the urgent need to strengthen Nepal’s federal democratic republic by revitalizing the country's economy. Speaking at the inauguration of 'Nagarkot Visit Year 2082' held at Batase Danda in Nagarkot, he called for collective responsibility in fulfilling the people's aspiration for rapid development.

President Paudel highlighted that tourism, agriculture, water resources, information technology, and industry are the economic pillars of the nation. He urged the government to enact effective policies and create an environment conducive to investment, employment, and industrial growth. "The state must address existing sectoral challenges and reduce production costs to ensure sustainable economic development," he said.

He also stressed the importance of transforming cultural, historical, and religious heritages into economic assets, noting that Nagarkot, situated close to Kathmandu and rich in natural beauty, has great potential to attract both domestic and international tourists. “Nagarkot’s panoramic mountain views, sunrise and sunset vistas make it one of the most preferred destinations for tourists,” he added.

President Paudel called for collaboration among the federal, provincial, and local governments, particularly the four municipalities around Nagarkot, to develop infrastructure, upgrade road access, and promote the region's uniqueness in the global tourism market. He lauded the municipalities for working together to promote heritage and said the launch of the visit year should inspire all to contribute to peace, prosperity, and inclusive nation-building.

Speaking at the same event, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey underlined the significance of developing tourist destinations like Dhulikhel, Panauti, Namobuddha, Shivpuri, and Chandragiri. He noted the gradual recovery of the tourism sector after the COVID-19 pandemic and earthquake setbacks, and assured that all three levels of government are committed to creating an investment-friendly economic environment.

Former Minister and MP Gokul Baskota proposed expanding tourism beyond the Himalayas and sunrises, by introducing sky tourism and water tourism in Kavre. Likewise, Bagmati Province’s Culture and Tourism Minister Bimal Thakuri said the visit year could be a milestone for boosting tourism in Nagarkot.

Changunarayan Municipality Mayor Jeevan Khatri called for Nagarkot to be officially declared a tourist hub, while Mandan Deupur Mayor Tok Bahadur Waiba and Banepa Mayor Shantiratna Shakya expressed optimism that the jointly organized visit year will stimulate regional economic development.