Kathmandu, Nepal, March 17, 2026: The 12th Global Conference and International General Assembly of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) concluded in the capital on Monday with the adoption of a 12-point declaration. The declaration emphasizes unity among the global Nepali community and advocates for greater investment in Nepal’s development.
Held under the theme “Our Unity, Base for Prosperity,” the three-day conference brought together diaspora representatives from around the world. The declaration outlines several commitments to strengthening the role of non-resident Nepalis (NRNs) in the nation's progress. It urges the Government of Nepal to create a more favorable legal and policy environment to facilitate diaspora investment, including amendments to laws governing citizenship, foreign investment, income tax, and property transactions.
The conference also called for the establishment of a dedicated mechanism to manage NRN investments, including provisions for opening bank accounts and enabling the repatriation of funds. Additionally, the assembly demanded that the limit for securities issued by the NRN Nepal Development Fund be fixed at 85%. The NRNA pledged to mobilize the knowledge and expertise of Nepali professionals, scientists, and researchers worldwide to support development through technology transfer and innovation.
Priority sectors identified for cooperation include hydropower, agriculture, tourism, information technology, and innovation-based industries. Furthermore, the declaration expressed deep concern regarding the escalating situation in the Middle East. The association committed to strengthening cooperation with the government and international agencies to provide relief, rescue, and rehabilitation assistance to Nepalis in the region during times of crisis.
Addressing the closing ceremony, Prime Minister Sushila Karki called on non-resident Nepalis to maintain their unity and actively contribute to the nation’s growth. “Development and prosperity cannot be achieved by the government alone. The cooperation, investment, and innovation of all Nepalis—both at home and abroad—are essential,” she stated. The Prime Minister also expressed confidence that the renewed unity within the NRNA, following a period of internal division, would provide a new direction for the country’s development.
Founding President Upendra Mahato and former President Jiba Lamichhane echoed these sentiments, expressing the diaspora's strong desire to contribute to a prosperous Nepal. Meanwhile, outgoing President Badri K.C. urged the government to ensure voting rights for Nepalis living abroad. The conference, which featured prominent leaders and senior officials, successfully sent a message of emotional unity among Nepalis worldwide.
The 12-Point Kathmandu Declaration
Organizational Unity: A commitment to maintaining the unified structure of the NRNA to serve as a common platform for all Nepalis abroad.
Policy Reform: Urging the government to amend laws related to citizenship, foreign investment, and property for a more investor-friendly environment.
NRN Citizenship Rights: Calling for the full implementation of the economic, social, and cultural rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
Investment Facilitation: Establishing mechanisms for easier bank account management and repatriation of investment capital.
NRN Nepal Development Fund: Fixing the securities issuance limit at 85% to mobilize large-scale diaspora capital.
Knowledge Transfer: Mobilizing global Nepali expertise in science and technology to foster domestic innovation.
Job Creation: Prioritizing projects that generate local employment and improve the living standards of Nepalis.
Priority Sector Focus: Directing investment toward hydropower, agriculture, tourism, IT, and innovation.
Middle East Crisis Response: Partnering with the government for the relief and rescue of Nepali workers in conflict-affected regions.
Dignified Labor: Ensuring the rights, safety, and dignified employment conditions for Nepali migrant workers in host countries.
Voting Rights: Urging the government to implement a system that allows non-resident Nepalis to vote in national elections.
Sustainability: Committing to environmentally friendly development and the preservation of Nepali culture across the globe.
