Symbolic inauguration of 5,000th suspension bridge built in Nepal courtesy Switzerland held

Swiss Agency for Development Cooperation (SDC) organized Thursday a symbolic inauguration of 5,000th suspension bridge built in Nepal with Swiss cooperation.

The event was a major part of 'street actions' held in Kapellplatz, Luzerne, that featured, among others, exhibition of a model suspension bridge as well as Nepalese culture and cuisine. This year marks the building of 5,000th suspension bridge in Nepal with SDC's assistance.

Speaking as a guest in the inauguration ceremony, Ambassador of Nepal to Switzerland, Shanker D. Bairagi, highlighted various aspects of Nepal-Swiss relations, including people-to-people relations, and the importance of Swiss development cooperation in Nepal.

In celebrating this unique event, we must genuinely reflect on how helpful these bridges have been for many hardworking people in Nepal where mountains and hills constitute 80% of landmass, he stated.

Besides facilitating life and fostering economic growth, the Ambassador added, the rural development works have helped generate jobs, develop skills and empower people at local level.

Ambassador Bairagi thanked the Swiss Government for its continued support in Nepal's development process and emphasized that cooperation will further be required in the areas of infrastructure development and building of productive capacity.

Speaking on the occasion, the SDC Deputy Director, Ambassador Maya Tissafi, highlighted the way suspension bridges have made life easy by ensuring safety, easing access to schools and hospitals and enhancing food security.

Canton President, Trix Dettling, and President of Helvetas, Elmar Ledergerber, also highlighted the importance of development works Switzerland has been involved in around the world.

The Swiss Nepal Society and the Non Resident Nepalese Association Switzerland as well as Nepalese living in Switzerland were actively involved in the programme. nepalnews.com