Executive Chairman of IME Group and Chairman of Global IME Bank has addressed the one day special thematic event “Building synergy and coherence in the implementation of Istanbul Programme of Action in the context of the 2030 Development Agenda” at the UN headquarters on 11 February 2016. Representing the private sector, one of the major implementation stakeholders from the Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Mr Dhakal briefed the role of private sector in general and situation of Nepal in particular. The event has been organized to provide input to the comprehensive high level midterm review. 

During the interactive panel discussion, Mr Dhakal underscored the role of private sector in meeting the goals set by Istanbul Programme of Action and 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and stated that “LDCs should recognize the role of private sector as an engine of economic growth to fund the investment gap. Private sector plays an important role in creating jobs, advancing innovation and generating public revenue for economic, social and environmental welfare. For achieving an ambitious target of economic growth for advancing from LDC, optimum utilization of these resources are necessary.” He also added the need of remittances investment and other measures to bridge the investment gap. He insisted on the need of conducive environment for investment through Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the country as Nepal is looking forward to graduating from LDC in 2022 and this target requires a steady double digit growth for the remaining period. 

The President of the 70th Session of the General Assembly Mr Mogens Lykketoft, and Under Secretary General and High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Counties and Small Island Developing Countries (OHRLLS) Mr Gyan Chandra Acharya have given  their opening remarks during the inaugural session. The event was addressed by ambassadors of the Member States of the UN, non-government organization, private sector, academic institutions and civil society. Mr Dhakal was invited by the President of 70th Session of General Assembly and the event was organized by UN-OHRLLS.