From May 10–11, 2024, the Embassy of Nepal and GIZ held the Second Nepali Professionals’ Summit in Berlin to foster collaboration, talent sharing, and knowledge exchange among Nepali professionals in Germany.
A Platform for Collaboration and Contribution
Nepali professionals attended a summit to network and discuss ways to contribute to the country’s socio-economic development, inaugurated by Nepal’s envoy to Germany, Ambassador Ram Kaji Khadka.
In advocating Germany’s greater attractiveness as a destination for Nepali professionals, Ambassador Khadka referred to the possibilities of fresh opportunities that resulted from the recent amendments to the German Skilled Migration Act.
Nepal’s Initiatives to Engage the Diaspora
Through programs like the National Brain Gain Center, the Non-Resident Nepali Act, and changes to the Citizenship Act, Nepal is encouraging diaspora engagement in its growth and showcasing its dedication to utilizing foreign talent.
Engaging Discussions on Key Issues
The summit featured insightful panel discussions on various development-related themes, including:
- Discussion on leveraging the diaspora’s knowledge capital beyond financial remittances.
- The role of the diaspora in promoting gender equality in Nepal.
- Strategies for reviving Nepal’s tourism industry post-COVID.
- Addressing challenges and opportunities in climate change and energy solutions.
- Discussion on improving healthcare delivery in Nepal and potential diaspora involvement.
- Exploring ways to leverage technology for Nepal’s development, with a focus on Nepali professionals abroad.
Highlighting Opportunities and Collaboration
The summit also featured presentations on programs fostering collaboration between the Nepali diaspora in Germany and their home country. Representative of (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) FAO Guilia Castro introduced the newly launched Diaspora Agri-Entrepreneurship Programme, while Saurav Koirala from GIZ Kathmandu discussed the PMD and MEG programs and their role in strengthening ties.
Looking Forward: Building on the Momentum
Ambassador Khadka praised Nepali professionals’ participation in the summit and emphasized the need for regular events to strengthen networks and promote collaboration for Nepal’s benefit.
The Second Nepali Professionals’ Summit in Berlin showcased the growing engagement between Nepal and its German diaspora, promoting knowledge exchange, collaboration, and a shared development vision, indicating potential for Nepal’s future.
