Nepal achieved a key milestone in its diplomatic and economic outreach by actively participating in the 2025 St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF). The forum, held from June 18 to 21, provided a global platform for Nepal to present its latest investment goals and economic reforms.
According to the Investment Board of Nepal (IBN), the event opened new doors for cooperation between Nepal and several top Russian institutions. The Nepali delegation was led by IBN Chief Executive Officer Sushil Gyewali, who held high-level discussions with Russian organizations such as the Russian Direct Investment Fund, Sberbank, Russian Railways, RusHydro, InterRAO, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation.
Talks focused on areas including hydropower, infrastructure development, natural resource exploration, and industrial growth. The discussions were described as productive and marked by mutual interest in long-term cooperation.
“The Nepali team highlighted recent reforms aimed at improving the investment climate in Nepal,” the IBN said in a statement. These reforms include stronger investor protection laws, tax incentives for businesses, and a streamlined One-Stop Service Centre designed to make the process easier for foreign investors.
Russian institutions responded positively, showing strong interest in exploring Nepal’s investment environment. Many also expressed a willingness to share knowledge in technology, policy planning, and project implementation.
The delegation included several high-level representatives: Nepal’s Ambassador to Russia, Janga Bahadur Chauhan; IBN Joint Secretary Pradhumna Prasad Upadhaya; Senior Engineer Dr. Youb Raj Paudyal; Member of Parliament and industrialist Binod Chaudhary; and key officials from Nepal Rastra Bank and the Non-Resident Nepali Association.
The SPIEF, one of the world’s most recognized economic forums, brought together over 24,200 delegates from 144 countries. Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the gathering, setting the tone for international partnerships and growth.
The IBN emphasized that Nepal’s presence at such a high-level global event helped the country showcase its potential as a growing investment destination. “SPIEF organizers have already extended an invitation for a larger and more senior Nepali delegation to attend next year,” the statement added.
During the forum, Nepal and Russia reaffirmed their commitment to continued dialogue and deeper economic cooperation. The Nepali side recognized Russia’s long-standing support for Nepal’s development goals and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to build new partnerships.
This year’s forum was especially important for Nepal as it works to attract new investments in hydropower, railways, tourism, and manufacturing. Officials believe that such partnerships will help create jobs, boost exports, and support Nepal’s journey toward becoming a middle-income country.
The delegation returned to Nepal on June 21 after completing its engagements at the Forum. According to the IBN, follow-up meetings and proposals are expected in the coming months as a result of the groundwork laid at SPIEF.
Nepal’s active role at the forum is seen as a strong move to boost its presence on the international investment map. By focusing on digital tools, policy reform, and international cooperation, the country aims to make itself more attractive to both public and private sector partners.
As Nepal continues to build its economy, officials say that such global forums are vital. They help create trust, attract funding, and promote new ideas for growth.
With firm plans and continued collaboration, Nepal hopes to transform these global connections into lasting development.
