Atul Keshap, the Senior Vice President for South Asia at the US Chamber of Commerce and former US Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, has arrived in Kathmandu to participate in the third Nepal Investment Summit, set for April 28 and 29. Keshap, who also served as the Deputy Head of the US Mission to India, plays a critical role in enhancing American investment interests in South Asia through his current tenure at the Chamber.
Keshap’s journey in fostering closer economic ties between the US and Nepal includes his instrumental role in the establishment of the American Chamber of Commerce in Nepal (AmCham Nepal) in 2021. According to Amir Raj Thapa, General Manager of AmCham Nepal, Keshap was pivotal in gaining official recognition for AmCham Nepal from the global American Chamber of Commerce network in November 2022.
“His contributions were instrumental in securing recognition from the American Chamber of Commerce,” said Thapa. “This recognition is significant as it facilitates networking and fosters trust within the Chamber’s global network.”
Thapa also noted Keshap’s consistent efforts in lobbying for American investment in Nepal, which has been critical in boosting the confidence of US investors regarding Nepali market opportunities. “We are delighted that he will share his insights and underscore the potential of American investment in Nepal at the summit,” Thapa added.
Keshap’s diplomatic career spans over 28 years and includes significant roles in advancing US relations within South Asia, especially during his tenure as President of both the America-India Business Council and America-Bangladesh Business Council. His contributions have been key during critical times, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the summit, Keshap will discuss the investment climate in Nepal and explore potential sectors where American businesses can significantly contribute to and benefit from their investments. His presence is expected to have a profound impact on the nearly three million US businesses connected through AmCham’s global network.
Keshap’s recent efforts also included facilitating important meetings in Washington DC for Finance Minister Barshaman Pun with top executives from leading US corporations like Coca-Cola, Disney, and MetLife.
Upon his arrival on Thursday, Keshap was warmly welcomed at the Tribhuvan International Airport by Nirmal Kazi Shrestha, the President of AmCham Nepal. His participation is anticipated to further strengthen economic ties and attract substantial US investments into Nepal, enhancing both countries’ economic cooperation and development.
26th Apr 2024
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