The Embassy of Bangladesh in Kathmandu hosted the Bangladesh Fish Festival on Friday at its premises.

Acting Foreign Secretary of Nepal, Krishna Prasad Dhakal, in his remarks, commended the initiative, noting that such events strengthen cultures and enhance economic, trade, and people-to-people ties between Nepal and Bangladesh.

He mentioned that the bilateral collaboration between Nepal and Bangladesh is moving towards deeper engagement through increased people-to-people contact, trade and transit, and energy and investment. It has further prospects for expanding cooperation in fisheries, aquaculture and food security between the two nations.

In the welcome remarks, Ambassador Md Shafiqur Rahman briefly outlined Bangladesh’s rich and traditional fisheries sector, terming the festival as Bangladesh’s riverine heritage, where fish has long been a symbol of their culture, livelihood, social fabric and national identity.

He noted that the festival serves not only as a cultural celebration but also as an opportunity to deepen regional cooperation and expand business partnerships. He branded the festival as a shared testament to the appreciation of the commonality of the vibrant, diverse cultures of Bangladesh and Nepal.

This festival also aimed to explore the growing market opportunities for Bangladeshi fish and seafood in Nepal, given Nepal’s rising demand for high-quality marine products.

It is the first time the Bangladesh Embassy in Kathmandu has organised such a showcase event promoting Bangladeshi fish varieties to the global community. The festival was attended by more than 150 guests.