Kathmandu - A newly launched report titled Nepali Diaspora in Australia has highlighted the growing economic, social, and strategic importance of the Nepali community in Australia, with policymakers, diplomats, and experts emphasizing the need for stronger engagement and more inclusive policies to harness diaspora potential for Nepal’s long-term development.
The report was officially launched in Kathmandu in the presence of Shishir Khanal, Simon Ernst, and Dr. Biswash Gauchan.
Opening the event, Dr. Gauchan underlined the immense contribution of the Nepali diaspora to the national economy, noting that remittances account for more than 30 percent of Nepal’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). He stated that the nearly USD 15 billion remittance inflow in a USD 45 billion economy demonstrates that the diaspora is not merely a supporting factor, but a foundational pillar of Nepal’s economic structure. He further stressed that proper mobilization of diaspora resources and expertise could significantly accelerate Nepal’s development trajectory.
Presenting the report’s key findings, author Sneha Ghimire said the Nepali diaspora in Australia should no longer be viewed solely as a remittance source, but as an engaged and globally connected community seeking meaningful social, economic, and cultural ties with Nepal.
Speaking at the launch, Ambassador Ernst described the Nepali diaspora as Nepal’s “living network” abroad and highlighted its expanding influence beyond financial contributions. He also pointed to the growing cultural exchange between Nepal and Australia, noting that Australian influences are increasingly visible in Kathmandu’s evolving coffee and café culture.
In his remarks, Foreign Minister Khanal acknowledged that Nepal’s current constitutional framework does not permit dual citizenship, describing it as a significant legislative limitation. However, he stated that the government is exploring practical pathways within the existing legal framework, including the possibility of strengthening provisions related to Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) citizenship.
The event also featured a panel discussion moderated by Akhilesh Upadhyay. Panelists included Birendra Raj Pandey, Dr. Meena Poudel, and Pjay Shrestha.
The discussion focused on expanding diaspora engagement beyond remittances by promoting investment in sectors such as energy, agriculture, and digital infrastructure. Panelists also emphasized the importance of integrated migration policies, incentive-based engagement mechanisms, and stronger cultural and institutional connections between Nepal and its overseas communities.
Delivering the closing remarks, Durga Prasad Bhattarai reflected on Nepal’s long-standing commitments to its diaspora community and stressed the need for greater sincerity and flexibility from the state. He also referenced bilateral consultation mechanisms and the 2024 Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) as important foundations for strengthening Nepal–Australia relations and people-to-people ties.
The report launch concluded with a shared message that Nepal’s diaspora possesses enormous untapped potential, but meaningful results will depend on coordinated policy reforms, political commitment, and sustained engagement from both the government and the diaspora community itself.
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