The NEDAC workshop on herbal medicinal plants, honey, cold water fish and NEDAC general assembly were held in Kathmandu on July 11 and 12.  The meeting organized jointly by the National Cooperative Federation Ltd, National Cooperative Development Board, National Agriculture Cooperative Central Federation Ltd and National Cooperative Bank Ltd drew NEDAC members from Bangladesh, China, India, Philippines, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Iran was admitted as a member during the Assembly.  Speaking at the inauguration, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli of Nepal said that “Nepal is a country of mountains and rivers. It can take advantage of the varied geographical features of the country and generate opportunities through fish, honey and other possible agricultural products.”He also spoke of the need to develop agriculture as it could generate immense employment opportunities not only in Nepal but across the NEDAC countries. “Increased agricultural production means we are heading in the right direction towards improving the living standards of the people. Self-reliance in agriculture helps alleviate not only household but `also national poverty.” Among the dignitaries who spoke at the ceremony were, Ms. Vasudha Mishra, NEDAC chairperson; Mr. Saroj Kumar Sharma, Chairman of Nepal chapter of NEDAC; Mr. Keshav Prasad Badal, Chairman of NCF; Ms. Om Devi Malla, Board member of NCF; Mr. K. Baskota, ex-chairman of NCF; and Mr. Balu Iyer, Regional Director, ICA-AP.

Prime Minister Mr. KP Sharma Oli lilghting the ceremonious lamp.

ICA-AP had a key role in the origin of NEDAC; first when it was proposed as an idea at the Regional Consultation in Singapore (1988) and second, when it was supported and endorsed at the First Minister’s Conference in Sydney (1990).  The Food and Agriculture Organization and the International Labor Organization Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific supported the setting up of the office.