May 29, 1996

Mr Carl Malamud
Secretary General
Internet 1996 World Exposition
Suite 1155, The National Press Building
Washington D.C. 20045, USA.

Dear Mr. Malamud,

I take pleasure in congratulating you on the organisation of the Internet 1996 World Exposition. We in Nepal firmly believe that information technology is essential in the development of our nation and, therefore, we look forward to making greater strides in this arena by availing ourselves with the opportunity of access to Internet facilities. Consequently, HMG/Nepal endorses the idea of a World Fair on the Internet and we would like to request you to admit us in Internet so that we would be able to participate actively in its affairs. In addition, we look forward to developing a pavilion and site at the Fair's Central Park whereby our country can make available to the millions of Internet users information on ecology and economy; rich culture and tradition; life styles and tourism; trade and commerce; and progress we have achieved over the years. I would also like to assure you that we will continue to add new information as we receive them.

Information technologies and easy connection to the Internet is opening up new possibilities for Nepal to accelerate her development initiatives. His Majesty's Government of Nepal intends to make these technologies and access to information on the Internet available to the widest possible segment of our population. Being a land-locked nation, Nepal is disadvantaged geographically and it does not possess much of trading options as well. However, since the Internet and the information it carries knows no boarders, Nepal can capitalise on this without prejudice of its geographic position. If situation permits, our country can become a leader in South Asia promoting information technologies for industrialists, financial markets, businessmen and enterpreneurs.

Participation of Nepal in the Internet 1996 World Exposition will be a starting point in our strategy to promote free information exchange characterised by the Internet. The electronic global village is making the world a smaller place in which we live. Nepal's inclusion and active participation in the electronic global village affairs will benefit our nation. I sincerely hope that the Internet 1996 World Exposition will be the starting point for a better road to our development.

I look forward to your co-operation in this respect

Regards,

(Sher Bahadur Deuba)