A New Horizon of South Asian Cooperation: Asian Excellence Achievers Awards–2025 Held in Kathmandu

Md. Kamal Uddin    |    ০৫:৪৬ পিএম, ২০২৫-১২-১৩

Kathmandu, Nepal | With the aim of strengthening regional friendship, promoting tourism development, expanding commercial cooperation, and enhancing cultural exchange among South Asian nations, the Asian Excellence Achievers Awards–2025 was successfully held in the capital city of Nepal. The prestigious international event took place on Friday, 13 December 2025, at the renowned Hotel G Ramayana, bringing together policymakers, elected representatives, diplomats, business leaders, and cultural figures from across the region. The program was graced by Mr. Bablu Gupta, Honorable Minister of Youth and Sports of the Government of Nepal, as the Chief Guest. In his keynote address, he emphasized that tourism and trade are key driving forces of South Asia’s economic growth and stated that collective regional cooperation is essential for sustainable development. He also highlighted the importance of youth engagement and sports and cultural exchanges among Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan.
Among the Special Guests, Mr. Kulman Ghising, Honorable Minister of Energy, Urban Development, Transportation, and Water Resources of Nepal, stressed that sustainable energy management, smart urban development, and strong regional connectivity are indispensable for long-term progress in South Asia. He praised platforms like the Asian Excellence Achievers Awards for fostering regional partnerships. Distinguished speakers at the event also included Mr. Ek Nath Dhakal, former Minister and long-serving Member of the House of Representatives of Nepal; Mr. Ananda Prasad Pokharel, former Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation; Ms. Tara Lama Tamang, Member of the House of Representatives; Dr. Rinchen Chophel, Vice President of CRC (UN), Bhutan; Mr. Ashok Byanju, Mayor of Dhulikhel Municipality; and Ms. Jashmin Banu, a prominent entrepreneur and CEO of Jade Garments Pvt. Ltd., Nepal. Speakers collectively emphasized the role of tourism and cultural heritage as powerful engines of economic development in South Asia. Md. Mahfuzur Rahman Honored for Outstanding Social Service Representing Bangladesh, Md. Mahfuzur Rahman, Assistant Police Commissioner (Kotowali Zone) of Chattogram Metropolitan Police, played a significant role in the program. In his remarks, he highlighted the importance of cross-border cooperation, social stability, and the role of law enforcement agencies in creating a safe and investor-friendly environment. In recognition of his remarkable contribution to social service, public safety, and community engagement, Md. Mahfuzur Rahman was presented with the Asian Excellence Achievers Award–2025. While presenting the award, speakers praised his dedication to maintaining civic order, ensuring citizen security, and upholding humanitarian values through professional integrity and public service. The event commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Mohammad Mahmudur Rahman, Director of the Nepal–Bangladesh Friendship Society, who underscored the deep-rooted friendship between Nepal and Bangladesh and the importance of such initiatives in strengthening bilateral cooperation through tourism, business, and cultural exchange. The session was chaired by Md. Golam Faruk Majnu, Executive Director of the Asian Business Partnership Summit, who stated that unified collaboration among South Asian nations on a common platform could significantly enhance the region’s position in the global economy. The program was skillfully moderated by Ms. Nepa Akter, Director of the South Asian Business Partnership. The event concluded with a vibrant cultural program, featuring performances by artists from different countries, celebrating the rich diversity and shared heritage of South Asia. The cultural showcase created an atmosphere of friendship, mutual respect, and regional harmony among participants. The program was organized by the South Asian Business Partnership (SABP). Organizers announced that similar international conferences and award ceremonies would be held regularly in the future to further strengthen cooperation, partnership, and shared development across South Asia.