Permanent Mission of Nepal to the United Nations, Consulate General of Nepal in New York and Visit Nepal Year 2020 Secretariat jointly launched the Visit Nepal Year 2020 in New York today.

Welcoming the guests to the special event, H.E. Mr. Amrit Bahadur Rai, Ambassador/Permanent Representative of Nepal to the United Nations, said that Nepal was a land of discovery and unique experiences and the country had so much to offer ­­– majestic mountains, scenic landscape and hospitable people. The Ambassador also underlined why visiting Nepal was a lifetime experience. Furthermore, he invited those interested to invest in the tourism industry of Nepal.

H.E. Mr. Arjun Kumar Karki, Ambassador of Nepal to the United States, highlighted the Government’s plans and programmes to promote Visit Nepal Year 2020 so as to enhance the contribution of tourism sector to the socio-economic development of Nepal.

During the event, former US Ambassador to Nepal Scott H. DeLisi was announced a goodwill ambassador of VNY 2020 in the United States.

A documentary of VNY 2020 showcasing major natural and cultural glimpses of Nepal was also shown during the event.

A presentation on VNY 2020, including descriptions of various aspects of tourism industry in Nepal, was made by Mr. Bachchu Narayan Shrestha, Member Secretary of the VNY 2020 Secretariat.

The presentation was followed by a panel discussion moderated by Ambassador Scott H. DeLisi in which the panelists shared their views and practical experiences about their Nepal visit. The panelists, assembled from various fields, elucidated why Nepal continues to remain one of the most favoured destinations for US tourists.

A number of tour operators, journalists, bloggers, thinktanks, businesspersons and friends of Nepal in New York attended the launching event. The event was followed by a short cultural programme.