Kathmandu, May 25: Ambassadors of European Union (EU) member states based in Kathmandu and New Delhi paid a joint courtesy call on Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal at the Ministry on Tuesday.
According to sources, the EU delegation will be holding discussion with Prime Minister Balendra (Balen) Shah on Tuesday.
The delegation comprises Ambassadors and Deputy Ambassadors from Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden.
During today’s meeting, Foreign Minister Khanal expressed appreciation for the EU’s continued development partnership with Nepal and highlighted key areas for deeper cooperation, including trade, climate action, education, and people-to-people exchanges.
He underscored efficient public service delivery and a strong anti-corruption drive as central pillars of good governance, along with rapid economic growth as top priorities of the government.
Khanal also outlined ongoing economic reforms aimed at improving the investment climate, boosting export competitiveness, and promoting innovation. He invited greater EU investment in hydropower, tourism, infrastructure development, and information technology.
Referring to Nepal’s progress and ongoing reforms, the minister requested EU member states to support Nepal’s efforts toward removal from the EU Air Safety List.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, EU Ambassador to Nepal Veronique Lorenzo said the visit aimed to reaffirm support for the new government and explore expanded cooperation, including sharing EU expertise in e-governance and digitalization.
The mission will feature high-level discussions with Nepal’s leadership, including a meeting with the Rt Hon Prime Minister Balendra Shah on Tuesday, 26 May. On Monday, 25 May, the delegation will hold talks with the Hon. Shisir Khanal, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Hon. Khadak Raj Paudel, Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, and the Hon. Sasmit Pokharel, Minister of Education, Science and Technology. The Ambassadors will also meet private sector leaders, civil society representatives, and youth leaders.
EU Ambassador Lorenzo stated, “This mission underscores the EU’s commitment to Nepal. We are here to congratulate the new government, reaffirm our support for Nepal’s development priorities, and explore new avenues for cooperation—from trade and investment to climate action and multilateral issues. Together, as Team Europe, we stand ready to work with Nepal to build a more prosperous, sustainable, and inclusive future.” #Nepal
