Kathmandu: The Nepal Italy Chamber of Commerce & Industries (NICCI) successfully convened its 11th Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Kathmandu, reaffirming its commitment to fostering investment,
expanding the tourism sector, and strengthening business ties between Nepal and Italy.
The event was graced by Honorable Patron Mr. Rajesh Kazi Shrestha, who attended as the Chief Guest
(Bisishta Manartha Sadasya). Also in attendance were Mr. Sanjay Agrawal, President of NICCI; Ms.
Pratima Pandey, Honorary Consul for Italy to Nepal; Mr. Arniko Rajbhandari, Senior Vice President of
NICCI; Mr. Rupak Rajbanshi, Vice President of NICCI; and Mr. Manoj Kumar Gyawali, Vice President of
NICCI, along with esteemed NICCI members.
The proceedings began with a welcome address by Mr. Manoj Shrestha Bhadel, General Secretary of
NICCI, who expressed gratitude for Italy’s longstanding support in the reconstruction of Nepal’s cultural,
historical, and material heritage. In his remarks, he emphasized, “Italy’s contributions have played a
crucial role in preserving Nepal’s heritage, and we believe this partnership will continue as a lasting
symbol of friendship between our two nations.”
A key highlight of the AGM was the recognition of individuals and organizations for their contributions
to Nepal-Italy economic relations. Honorable Patron Mr. Rajesh Kazi Shrestha and Honorary Consul
Ms. Pratima Pandey were presented with tokens of appreciation as Guests of Honor. In addition, Mr.
Ashank SJB Rana was awarded Member of the Year 2024 for his outstanding contributions.
In his presidential address, Mr. Sanjay Agrawal, President of NICCI, highlighted the longstanding
consular relations between Nepal and Italy, which date back to August 31, 1959. Over the past six and
a half decades, the two nations have maintained a smooth and growing economic partnership. He
emphasized NICCI’s role in further strengthening economic ties and promoting bilateral trade between
the two countries. Italy has played a crucial role in Nepal’s development, providing substantial support,
especially following Nepal’s transition to democracy in 1990. The Italian government and its people
extended significant aid to Nepal in the aftermath of the 2015 earthquake. Through its efforts, NICCI
aims to attract Italian investment and increase the influx of Italian tourists to Nepal, reinforcing the
strong and friendly relationship between the two nations.
Through its initiatives, NICCI remains dedicated to enhancing bilateral trade, fostering investment
opportunities, and promoting Italian tourism in Nepal. The successful conclusion of the 11th AGM
marks yet another milestone in the chamber’s ongoing efforts to drive mutual economic growth and
reinforce the strong and friendly relationship between Nepal and Italy.
