US Government Reaffirms Commitment to Support Nepal

The US government, represented by Ricky Gill, affirmed its ongoing economic support for Nepal during a recent meeting with Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba. Additionally, Dr. Rana sought assistance for the release of a Nepali student held by Hamas and engaged in discussions with Ukrainian and Moldovan counterparts to address bilateral relations and mutual concerns.

On March 19, 2023, during a meeting with Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, Ricky Gill, the National Security Assistant to President Donald Trump, reaffirmed the United States government’s commitment to providing economic assistance to Nepal. This meeting occurred at the Raisina Dialogue, hosted by India’s Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi, where the duo discussed various aspects of Nepal-US relations.

Foreign Minister Dr. Rana implored the US government to facilitate the release of a Nepali student, Bipin, who is currently held by Hamas. Bipin was abducted from Israeli territory in October 2023, and the Nepalese government has actively pursued diplomatic efforts, with Dr. Rana appealing to global leaders for support in securing his release.

In addition to her meeting with Mr. Gill, Dr. Rana also conferred with her Indian counterpart, Dr. S. Jaishankar, focusing on enhancing Nepal-India relations including trade, transit, and hydropower development. Dr. Rana emphasized Nepal’s commitment to fostering collaboration for mutual benefit during their discussions.

Dr. Rana engaged in separate bilateral talks with other foreign ministers, including Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha, where they addressed the situation of seven Nepali nationals captured by Ukrainian forces. Dr. Rana clarified that these individuals were trafficked into the Russian military, urging for their release, while Foreign Minister Sybiha promised to uphold legal procedures regarding the matter.

Furthermore, during these meetings, Dr. Rana solicited Ukraine’s support for Nepal’s candidacy for the United Nations Human Rights Council for the term of 2027-2029. The session also resulted in the signing of a visa-free entry agreement for diplomatic passport holders of both nations.

In her discussions with Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mihai Popsoi, Dr. Rana acknowledged the severe effects of climate change on Nepal and sought collaboration methods. She also informed Minister Popsoi about Nepal’s impending graduation from the least developed countries (LDCs) list by 2026, and the support required for this transition. Dr. Rana additionally requested Moldova’s support for Nepal’s UN Security Council candidacy and highlighted the importance of Popsoi’s upcoming visit to further solidify Nepal-Moldova relations.

In summary, the recent engagements among the Nepali Foreign Minister and various counterparts reaffirm the commitment of the US and other nations to support Nepal in challenging circumstances, specifically highlighting the need for assistance in recovering abducted citizens. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral relations, cooperation on climate change, and support for Nepal’s candidacy in international forums, underscoring Nepal’s diplomatic endeavors to strengthen its global presence.

Original Source: risingnepaldaily.com