KATHMANDU, August 7: The Federation of Handicraft Associations of Nepal (FHAN) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Thailand-based Songkhla Chamber of Commerce during an SMEs trade fair in Songkhla, Thailand recently.

The MoU, aimed at fostering collaboration in trade and skill transfer between Nepal and Thailand, was signed by FHAN President Prachanda Shakya and Songpon, president of the Songkhla Chamber of Commerce, reads a statement issued by FHAN. The signing ceremony was attended by Mahamapisakri Wamae, deputy governor of Songkhla Province, and Chatsuda Chumsaeng, director of Songkhla Provincial Commerce.

The MoU signing was a key highlight of the FHAN delegation's visit to the trade fair, which took place from July 18 to 21. Led by President Shakya and Vice President Dilli Ratna Tuladhar, the delegation attended the event as honored guests, following an invitation from the Office of Provincial Commercial Affairs, Songkhla Province. The trade fair was organized by the Songkhla Chamber of Commerce with support from the provincial government.

During the event, the FHAN delegation engaged with various government officials, business leaders, and representatives of SMEs. President Shakya addressed the attendees at the opening ceremony, emphasizing the potential for collaboration between Nepal and Thailand's SMEs and business communities, particularly in skill transfer and trade promotion. Vice President Tuladhar echoed this sentiment in his speech, reinforcing the message of cooperation and mutual benefit.

In addition to their participation in the trade fair, the FHAN delegation met with the Nepalese Ambassador to Thailand, Dhan Bahadur Oli, at his office. During the meeting, the delegation sought the ambassador's assistance in promoting Nepalese handicraft products in Thailand. Ambassador Oli assured the delegation of his full support and commitment to this cause.

According to FHAN, the visit to the Songkhla SMEs trade fair marks a significant step towards strengthening trade relations and skill development between Nepal and Thailand, underscoring the potential for future collaboration and growth in the handicraft sector.