Kathmandu, Jan 20: Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Arzu Rana Deuba has held a telephonic conversation with Egyptian Foreign Minister Dr Badr Abdelatty today, urging him to take initiatives for the safe release of Bipin Joshi, a Nepalese citizen believed to be held captive by Hamas.
This request comes as Hamas has started the process of releasing captives from Sunday following the peace talks and ceasefire with the Israeli government. Dr Rana, who is currently in Bangkok for health treatment, expressed her gratitude to the Egyptian government for facilitating the ceasefire.
In response, Dr Abdelatty said that he would give special instructions to the Egyptian mediator to prioritise Joshi’s release. Lately, Dr Rana has intensified diplomatic efforts, engaging with ambassadors of Israel, Egypt, Qatar, seeking their governments’ assistance in securing Joshi’s release.
A few days ago, Dr Rana had separate telephonic conversations with Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Dr Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, and Israel’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa’ar, requesting similar assistance. Khulaifi is the chief negotiator and mediator in the peace talks.
Joshi was among those who were kidnapped during Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, which led to the killing of more than a thousand people, including 10 Nepalis. Since then, the Government of Nepal has continued its diplomatic efforts for Joshi’s release.
Dr Rana has continuously raised the issue at national and regional forums, including the United Nations, and through bilateral meetings for Joshi’s safe release. #nepal #Bipin Joshi
