Kathmandu, August 17—
The Office of the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Indonesia in Nepal marked Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day with a flag-hoisting ceremony and special programmes at the IME Complex in Panipokhari, Kathmandu, on Monday.
Chandra Prasad Dhakal, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Indonesia in Nepal, who is also Chairman of IME Group and Immediate Past President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), hoisted the Indonesian national flag at the ceremony.
Speaking at the event, Dhakal highlighted the steadily growing friendship between Nepal and Indonesia since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1960. He said bilateral relations have continued to strengthen, particularly in the areas of trade, tourism and cultural exchange.
The programmes organised to mark Indonesia’s Independence Day highlighted the country’s economic, social and cultural significance while underscoring the long-standing friendship and cooperation between Nepal and Indonesia.
Trade, tourism and investment between the two countries have been growing in recent years. Nepal imports edible oils, coal, petroleum products and paper products from Indonesia, while exporting leather, tea, coffee and handicrafts, among other products.
The Office of the Honorary Consul said continued joint efforts are needed to increase Nepal’s exports to Indonesia and attract greater direct investment from Indonesia to help reduce the trade imbalance between the two countries.
Dhakal thanked members of the Indonesian community in Nepal for their presence and reaffirmed the Office’s commitment to further expanding cooperation between Nepal and Indonesia in trade, investment and tourism.
The ceremony was attended by members of the Indonesian community in Nepal, staff of the Office of the Honorary Consul, senior leadership and representatives of various organisations under IME Group, well-wishers and other dignitaries.