MoU Signed Between IRGDD and FHAN to Boost Nepal’s Handicraft Sector

Amb. Dr. Sarmila Parajuli Dhakal, President of IRGDD, and Rabindra Shakya, President of FHAN, during the MoU signing ceremony in Kathmandu.

Kathmandu, June 18, 2025: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the International Relations and Global Diplomacy Dialogue (IRGDD) and the Federation of Handicraft Associations of Nepal (FHAN) on June 18, 2025. Through this MoU, the two organizations will jointly pursue activities to promote Nepal’s handicrafts.

According to the Press Release, the President of IRGDD, Dr. Sarmila Parajuli Dhakal, and the President of FHAN, Rabindra Shakya, signed the MoU during a special event held in Kathmandu, Nepal.

IRGDD envisions a globally engaged Nepal that thrives through diplomacy, development, and knowledge. Its mission is to strengthen Nepal’s role in global affairs while supporting local economic development and promoting small states, women, and artisans through strategic partnerships and advocacy.

Similarly, FHAN envisions a vibrant and empowered artisan community. Its mission is to preserve Nepal’s unique craftsmanship, empower artisan producers, and improve competitiveness in both local and global markets.

Together, both organizations believe in leveraging diplomacy and cooperation to make Nepali handicrafts a globally recognized and proud brand.

The purpose of the MoU was to establish a framework for cooperation between IRGDD and FHAN to promote Nepal’s handicrafts, empower artisans, support research and policy dialogue, and leverage each party’s comparative strengths to maximize impact and visibility. This MoU reflects the shared commitment of both parties to support the sustainable growth of Nepal’s handicraft sector and contribute to the national economy.

Both parties recognize the cultural and economic importance of traditional crafts and are committed to empowering artisans, preserving heritage, and enhancing international visibility through joint efforts in research, diplomacy, innovation, and advocacy.

IRGDD President Dr. Dhakal stated that this is just the beginning of a collaboration to uplift Nepal’s handicraft sector. “This agreement has paved the way for us to support the handicraft tradition in Nepal. Let’s work together for the benefit of the people of Nepal,” she said. “IRGDD is ready to collaborate with organizations like FHAN to promote Nepali products and Nepal itself.”

She further emphasized that IRGDD’s goal is to promote Nepal’s soft diplomacy globally.

FHAN President Mr. Shakya also highlighted the importance of the partnership. “This MoU will not only benefit the handicraft sector but also the country. We are targeting markets in developing countries,” he said.

He added, “Currently, we are working mainly with women and youth. The government has also prioritized these groups in its policies. We are confident that an organization like IRGDD can help promote these initiatives. By spreading handicrafts globally, we can boost both the sector and the nation’s image.”

Areas of Collaboration:

The following areas will form the basis of cooperation between IRGDD and FHAN:

a. Promotion of Nepali Products: Planning and implementing initiatives aligned with shared thematic priorities.

b. Education and Research: Conduct joint research on product trends, international standards, and market opportunities. Organize training programs and workshops to improve artisans’ knowledge of design, innovation, sustainability, and quality.

c. Quality Improvement and Product Development: Provide technical guidance on improving product quality and packaging to meet international demands. Explore innovation while respecting and preserving traditional methods and cultural significance.

d. Business Linkages and Market Access: Explore shared visibility opportunities through co-branded platforms and digital outreach channels to enhance collective reach and positioning.

e. Policy and Advocacy Support: Collaborate on policy recommendations to support the handicraft sector. Raise awareness among stakeholders about the economic and cultural value of the industry. Each party shall contribute in accordance with its institutional strengths, with FHAN taking the lead in ensuring the quality and authenticity of products developed under this collaboration. IRGDD shall focus on enhancing strategic visibility and global promotion through its diplomatic and knowledge-based platforms.