KATHMANDU: The Werribee Asia-Pacific Expo 2025 and Made in Nepal Promotion Event concluded this week with the official launch of Power of Habits, a book by Nepali author Dan Ghising. Held at Wyndham City Council premises under the theme "Innovation, Culture & Connection in Asia-Pacific," the event brought together government officials, business leaders, academics and community representatives from across the region.

MP Kathleen Mathews-Ward unveiled the book, commending Ghising's creative insights. The expo featured keynote addresses emphasising the growing significance of Asia-Pacific collaboration in trade, technology, culture and tourism.

Senior officials from Nepal attended, including Godawari Municipality Mayor Gajendra Maharjan and Kathekhola Rural Municipality Mayor Raju Thapa. Space-technology entrepreneur Mohan Tamang, founder of Mach24 Orbitals, was among notable speakers.

A high-level panel discussion included academics from the University of Melbourne and Federation University alongside international experts, covering education, entrepreneurship, cultural diplomacy and regional opportunities.

Multiple individuals received community service honours, including Wyndham City Councillors Jenny Barrera, Jasmine Hills and Larry Zhao, and Merri-bek City Councillor Chris Miles. Additional recipients included Narayan Kandel, Taranjeet Kaur Maharjan and Rachana Shrestha.

The Nepal stall showcased made-in-Nepal products, tourism materials, traditional handicrafts and entrepreneurial innovations, drawing significant visitor engagement. Cultural performances, B2B networking sessions and global market stalls created an inclusive atmosphere throughout the day.

Ghising noted the expo strengthened economic, cultural, tourism and technological ties between Nepal and Australia.