July 26: Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) has requested the newly appointed Pakistani Ambassador to Nepal, Abrar Hussain Hashmi, for the operation of direct air service between Nepal and Pakistan. The NCC is of the view that direct air connectivity is necessary to facilitate trade between the two countries and promote tourism activities.

In a meeting with the newly appointed Ambassador Hasmi, NCC President Rajendra Malla emphasized that the Kathmandu-Karachi flights should be resumed immediately for the expansion of trade between the two countries, exchange of tourism and growth of economic and commercial activities.

Malla urged Ambassador Hashmi to take the initiative for the operation of air services between the two countries at the government level. The also requested for cooperation with the private sector.

 "The air distance between Nepal and Pakistan is three hours. If it can be utilized, trade and tourism can be expanded between the two countries," he said.

According to NCC President Malla, there is great potential for both the countries to benefit by increasing joint investment in air services and small and medium industries through cooperation between the private sector.

Pakistani Ambassador to Nepal Hasmi said that there should be an initiative from the government for the operation of air services.

Nepal is currently importing medicines, processed leather products, machinery items, shoes, slippers among others from Paksitan while Nepal exports honey, coffee, tea, handicraft products, cardamom, eye lenses, woolen yarn and other items to Pakistan.

According to Malla, direct flights will also facilitate tourism activities. Ambassador Hasmi expressed his commitment to take further initiatives for the expansion of business activities by holding discussions between the officials of the chambers of commerce of the two countries.