Kathmandu, Jan 13: Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Arzu Rana Deuba has said both of Nepal’s neighboring countries, India and China, have continued to prioritise their relations with Nepal.
Speaking at today’s meeting of the International Relations and Tourism Committee under the House of Representatives, Dr Rana highlighted Nepal’s strengthened relationships with these countries through ongoing bilateral meetings, exchanges and dialogue.
“Various bilateral meetings, exchange of visits and dialogue are taking place. Both countries have been supporting Nepal since the past and this cooperation and goodwill will continue in the days to come.”
The minister was responding to queries raised by the committee members regarding Nepal’s diplomatic relations in the recent past.
She mentioned Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s and her participation in the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, and various sideline meetings and programs, alongside PM Oli’s visit to China and her visit to India, where several agreements and understandings were reached.
Clarification on BRI agreement
In response to a query raised in the meeting, Minister Dr Rana clarified that the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) agreement does not include the term “loan” and is aid-based.
“That agreement does not mention the term “loan”. As far as I understand, the word ‘aid’ used in it does not mean loan.”
Nepal has retained the choice to seek loans based on necessity, and there is no obligation to take loan under this agreement.
Maximum initiatives for Bipin Joshi’s release
It meeting was informed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken maximum initiatives for the release of Bipin Joshi, a Nepalese student, who is believed to be held captive by Hamas.
She informed that just a few days ago, she met with ambassadors of Israel, Egypt and Qatar, requesting their assistances in Joshi’s release.
She also mentioned her ongoing efforts to talk to the Foreign Minister of Qatar, who is said to be mediating with Hamas for the release of captives, requesting for his assistance.
The request follows reports that Hamas is releasing 34 captives, including women, children and the elderly.
It is reported that the Palestinian militant group is requested to prioritise captives, particularly the elderly, women and children, and those in critical health conditions in the first phase.
Mentioning recent reports confirming Joshi’s survival, which gives hope for his safe return, Dr Rana said that she has extensively lobbying with national and regional forums, including the United Nations, and through bilateral meetings for his safe release.
Revival of SAARC
On reviving the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), Dr Rana seeks the consents of all member states.
“SAARC cannot be made active just because we want it. The SAARC charter itself states that its summit can only be held with the consent of the heads of state and governments of all member states.
SAARC has yet to get momentum because all member states are not ready. However, Nepal is continuing its initiatives and efforts as the chair.”
She also highlighted her efforts in initiating a meeting of SAARC foreign ministers during the UN General Assembly.
Change in ministry’s structure based on O&M survey
Dr Rana informed that the ministry has conducted an organisation and management (O&M) survey, focusing on expanding diplomatic missions to better serve the Nepali diaspora.
She said an action plan will be made for changes in ministry’s branches and a division established for economic diplomacy with inter-ministry collaboration.
She also emphasised ongoing efforts to enhance passport services with new tenders improving procedural efficiency despite complexities. #drarzu #diplomacy #nepal
