Economists urge SAARC to focus on economy

KATHMANDU:

Economists have laid emphasis on the need for the country to explore new avenues of mutual benefit focusing on the issues of economic development in the coming South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC)'s 18th Summit.

Most of the speakers at a discussion on effects of the SAARC Summit on the economy organised by the Media International here today stressed on the need of improvement in mutual relations among the SAARC member countries and thereby promoting and expanding the regional trade.

Former Finance Minister Shankar Koirala said SAARC has not been able to make the desired achievement in the economic development realm despite completing 29 years of establishment.

He said Nepal as the host of the 18th SAARC Summit should raise the issue of promoting mutual trade by expanding air, surface and sea connectivity in every member country.

Economic advisor to the Prime Minister, Chiranjibi Nepal, said stress should be laid on the development of tourism and water resources.

He added that Nepal should now give priority to service-oriented industries for taking a leap in the economy.

Member of the National Planning Commission (NPC) Chandramani Adhikari pointed out the need of creating employment opportunities and using the human resources available within the SAARC in the region itself.

SOurce: THT