November 21: Leaders of major political parties have stressed on a new agenda of economic prosperity in the context of changed political scenario of the nation. They made such remarks at the National Economic Debate organised by the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of  Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) with the slogan "Today's Determination, Economic Prosperity" in the capital on November 20.

 They said that political stability, good governance and self-sustaining economy are the pre-requisites for economic development. Leaders present at the function on Monday pledged to implement the programmes and agendas mentioned in their election manifestos after the elections.

Former prime minister and Chairman of CPN-UML K P Oli stressed on the need to adopt to the new federal structure to gain economic prosperity.

“Things that were not possible in 70 years are now possible in 17 years due to the advancement of technology,” said Oli. He further said that Nepal should benefit from the use of international-standard technology.

Oli said that there won’t be any problem of budget allocation for development works if the government leadership has clear vision and plans. He also claimed that the next government will chart out the map for the economic prosperity of the country.

Nepali Congress leader and former finance minister Dr Ram Sharan Mahat said that their new agenda is economic prosperity but challenges remain in achieving the goal.

“Economic prosperity has become the common agenda of all parties. But now, we are heading towards a three-tier system of governance which is expected to increase the expenses of the government. Bureaucracy is being politicized. And if we are to achieve economic prosperity, first and foremost we must give attention to these things,” said Mahat.

Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Center) leader and former finance minister Krishna Bahadur Mahara mentioned that sustainable development and economic prosperity are the priorities of the nation. He claimed that the manifesto of the left alliance has also been prepared accordingly. Co-Chairman of Federal Socialist Forum, Rajendra shrestha, said that lack of far sightedness of the political leaders has become a hindrance for smooth development.