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Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba has said that Nepal has been strongly raising the issue of climate justice in international forums.

At a program organized by Nepal Tarun Dal, Kaski, at Pokhara on Wednesday, Foreign Minister Rana expressed the view that Nepal should get compensation through a Fund for responding to Loss and Damage. 

Stating that Nepal had raised a voice related to this issue in the International Court of Justice, the Foreign Minister said that Nepal has been facing negative impacts of carbon emission by developed countries. 

"We strongly raised the issue that Nepal should get compensated for loss and damage and our damaged physical structures like bridges and school buildings should be built", she mentioned, adding "Nepal should lower carbon emission to net-zero. A tree plantation campaign should be launched to expand the forest area which now stands at 45 percent."  

Stating that climate change has invited a major challenge, Minister Rana stressed the role of the new generation is important to lessen its risks.

"It is necessary to plant trees, to reduce the use of plastic, to increase the use of electric vehicles and renewable energy to protect the coming generation from climate change impacts", she argued.

The Foreign Minister further said Nepal's independence and sovereignty have been established in the world due to its stable foreign policy, sharing, "Nepal has its own foreign policy. It has its own identity in the world community and we have been maintaining it since long. It is a matter of pride for all."

Similarly, National Assembly member and outgoing central President of Nepal Tarun Dal, Jit Jung Basnet, urged the Tarun Dal to hold its convention of all-levels on time. 

He emphasized on the implementation of a seven-point deal signed between Nepali Congress and CPN-UML during formation of the government. 

Likewise, Tarun Dal President Bidhwan Gurung urged the members of the organisation to be involved in rescue and relief in the event of a disaster. 

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba has called on the international community to support sustainable agricultural systems for Nepal and countries with similar topographies, as well as climate finance for the Himalayan region.

Addressing the 44th General Assembly of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) held in Rome on Monday, she urged for ensuring grant-based international climate finance for Nepal, particularly for the mountainous regions, which are suffering from the impacts of climate change.

"The mountainous region of Nepal and countries like Nepal are the most vulnerable due to the climate crisis. However, these areas have been neglected in climate finance and adaptation efforts. It is essential that all those concerned over this issue pay attention to it," Minister Rana said.

Stating that the agricultural sector is the backbone of the economy, she mentioned that agriculture contributes 23 percent to Nepal's gross domestic product and that nearly two-thirds of the population depends on agriculture.

She also made it clear that the role of agriculture is crucial in food security, nutrition, poverty alleviation, and rural development.

Minister Rana stated that the goal of creating a hunger-free world by 2030 is still unfulfilled and it is being challenged by pandemics, climate crises, economic instability, and geopolitical tensions.

She stated that sustainable and resilient mountain agriculture promotion is essential not only for our livelihoods but also important for the planet's biodiversity, food security, and the ecological balance of the Earth.

"We are seeking collaboration to expand farmers' access to early warning systems. In the context of increasing climate risks, we expect stronger collaboration with FAO for the promotion of sustainable mountain agriculture. Additionally, Nepal has expressed the expectation of sharing experiences and knowledge about successful practices to increase the participation and leadership of women and youth farmers," reiterated Minister Rana, expressing Nepal's desire to expand successful and innovative agriculture practices as the 'four better' approach.

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba has emphasised the need for global cooperation among vulnerable countries to address growing risks of climate change.

Addressing the session on "Four Betters for Small Island Developing States (SIDs), Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs)" during the Ministerial Special Session of Forty-Fourth Session of Food and Agriculture Organisation in Rome, Foreign Minister Rana highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable countries.

“Least developed countries, landlocked developing countries and small island developing states are at great risk of climate change. It is also adversely affecting agricultural production and livelihoods," she said. 

She referred to the "Sagarmatha Sambaad" recently held in Nepal, which brought together global leaders, fostering global collaboration on climate change issues.

Furthermore, Minister Rana stressed the need for climate adaptation financial assistance, early warning systems and development of rural infrastructure for the Himalayan countries to address these challenges, calling for international investment and capacity building with accessible and inclusive measures.

“Only technology, collaboration and solidarity can bridge the gap between potential and achievement. Nepal has always called for the promotion of South-South and North-South cooperation, technology transfer, market access and expansion, and access to financial resources”, she mentioned.

Highlighting the growing challenges facing vulnerable countries, Minister Rana stressed that shared crises such as food insecurity, malnutrition, and climate change are reversing achievements made so far. 

She noted that Nepal continues to face multifaceted challenges such as climate-related disasters, weak infrastructure, biodiversity loss, and limited access to technology and finance.

The Minister reiterated Nepal's commitment to FAO's 'The Four Betters'--Better Production, Better Nutrition, Better Environment and Better Life--as guiding principles in transforming the country's agricultural system. 

Under Better Production, Nepal is scaling up climate-smart farming, high-value mountain crops, and local innovation to modernize value chains, and under Better Nutrition, the country is promoting diverse, safe, and nutrient-rich foods, especially in rural and vulnerable communities.

Under Better Environment, Nepal is prioritising agroecology, regenerative agriculture, sustainable soil and water management and biodiversity conservation to restore ecosystems.

In line with Better Life, the country has focused on promoting decent livelihood, rural development, and social protection and promoting employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. It is also focused on empowerment of women, youth, smallholders and marginalised communities and enhancing public services, infrastructures and safety nets in rural communities.

Foreign Minister Rana opined that more than 60 percent of the workforce in Nepal is engaged in the agricultural sector, which contributes 23 percent to the Gross Domestic Product, adding that agriculture is not only a means of employment but also a means of nutrition and livelihood. 

Minister of Foreign Affairs Arzu Rana Deuba has participated in the high level ministerial special eventorganized during the ongoing 44th Session of the General Conference of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) at its headquarters in Rome, Italy. 

Addressing conference Rana called on the global community to act together towards building food systems that nourish our people and protect our future, leaving no one behind.

 There is a need to build a future where no child suffers from stunting, no mother is left without nourishment, and no community is denied the right to a healthy life, the foreign minister said. While underscoring the need for international partnerships, predictable financing, and accessible technology in securing safe and nutritional food for all people in the world, particularly for those living in the LDCs, LLDCs and SIDs, the Foreign Minister called for scaled-up investment in transforming our food systems, means to adapt to climate change, and the resources to help build the resilience of these group of countries.

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba has confirmed that 16 Nepalis are currently in Iran, which is involved in a conflict with Israel. Addressing the House of Representatives on Monday, she stated that 11 Nepalis are staying in a location called Mashhad, while the other five are in prison for entering Iran illegally.

She said 11 of them are expected to arrive in India on Tuesday via an Indian flight, and Nepal had agreed to their evacuation after India offered to rescue Nepalis along with its own citizens. One of the evacuees lacks travel documents, and the process to issue them is underway, she added. Efforts are in progress to secure the release of the five jailed Nepalis. 

She also said that the government is working with priority for the safety of Nepalis in areas affected by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, while taking the potential impacts seriously. “The ministry issued travel-related information with detailed contact details on June 15, requesting Nepalis currently in Israel and Iran to exercise maximum caution from a safety perspective.” Minister Rana said that the Nepali ambassadors in the respective countries have been instructed to coordinate for the safety of Nepali citizens. Mentioning that an ‘online portal’ was launched on June 17 to collect details of Nepali citizens, she informed that 885 individuals have registered their information on the portal so far and the registration process is increasing.

The Foreign Affairs Minister stated, “On June 18, all Nepali missions in the Gulf have been instructed to facilitate the process of providing online visas and other assistance for Nepalis who wish to travel to safe locations or neighboring countries, in light of the current suspension of air routes in those countries.”

In this context, she mentioned that the Jordanian government documented, on June 19, the need to provide necessary assistance to foreign nationals coming from Israel to their borders. The minister also stated that the Nepali embassy has communicated with ILO and IOM regarding facilitation on this matter. She also mentioned that efforts are underway for a prompt rescue and repatriation from Israel and Iran through coordination with the relevant bodies and the formation of a rapid response group. Foreign Minister Deuba stated that the Nepal government has been continuously pursuing diplomatic efforts at both bilateral and multilateral levels for the release of Bipin Joshi, held hostage since the 7 Oct 2023 attack near Gaza.

She added that Nepal has been pursuing economic diplomacy as one of the major tools of its foreign policy and its missions abroad are being encouraged to get engaged in areas like trade, foreign investment, tourism and technology. Minister Deuba said efforts are underway through diplomatic missions to promote cultural and tourism diplomacy, adding that her ministry is also taking steps for the sustainability of Nepal’s graduation from the grouping of least developed countries to the club of middle-income developing countries. Nepal is scheduled to become a developing nation in 2026.

She made it clear before the session that the appointment of ambassadors is taking place as per the existing rules and in the deputation of labor attachés, the ministry follows the recommendations of the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security. As the Minister said, the number of missions and human resources for foreign services has been increased following the ministry’s Organization and Management Survey. In addition to these, digital archiving and data management are among the priorities of the ministry.
On a different note, Minister Deuba said the ministry remains highly vigilant in preventing any issues that could affect national security and interests. In line with our foreign policy, the ministry is firmly committed to ensuring that Nepali territory is not used against any neighboring country, Deuba said.

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba has said that the government is working with priority for the safety of Nepalis in areas affected by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, while taking the potential impacts seriously. 

Responding to queries raised by lawmakers during the discussion on the appropriation bill in today's House of Representatives meeting, she said, "The ministry issued travel-related information with detailed contact details on June 15, requesting Nepalis currently in Israel and Iran to exercise maximum caution from a safety perspective."

Minister Rana said that the Nepali ambassadors in the respective countries have been instructed to coordinate for the safety of Nepali citizens. 

Mentioning that an 'online portal' was launched on June 17 to collect details of Nepali citizens, she informed that 885 individuals have registered their information on the portal so far and the registration process is increasing. 

The Foreign Affairs Minister stated, "On June 18, all Nepali missions in the Gulf have been instructed to facilitate the process of providing online visas and other assistance for Nepalis who wish to travel to safe locations or neighboring countries, in light of the current suspension of air routes in those countries."

In this context, she mentioned that the Jordanian government documented on June 19, 2025 stated the need to provide necessary assistance to foreign nationals coming from Israel to their borders. 

The minister  also stated that the Nepali Embassy  has communicated with ILO and IOM regarding facilitation on this matter. 

Minister Rana informed the Parliament that a request was made to the Indian government to rescue 16 Nepalis in Iran, and with the help of the Indian embassy in Iran, the process to bring back 11 of them to Nepal has begun. 

The remaining five are detained due to immigration laws, and the ministry is working through the Nepali Embassy in Doha to complete the paperwork for their return. 

She also mentioned that efforts are underway for the prompt rescue and repatriation from Israel and Iran through coordination with the relevant bodies and the formation of a rapid response group. 

Foreign Minister Rana stated that the Nepal government has been continuously pursuing diplomatic efforts at both bilateral and multilateral levels for the release of Bipin Joshi since the beginning.

The minister added that Nepal has pursued economic diplomacy as one of the major tools of its foreign policy and its missions abroad are being encouraged to engage in trade, foreign investment, tourism, and technology provision. 

Likewise, she said that efforts are underway from the diplomatic missions to promote cultural and tourism diplomacy, adding that the Ministry is undertaking necessary works for the sustainability of Nepal's graduation from the category of the least developed country to a middle- income developing country. 

Nepal is scheduled to observe its graduation from the LDC to the developing nation in 2026.  

She made it clear before the session that the appointment of ambassadors is taking place as per the existing rules and in the deputation of labor attachés.

The minister said that  the number of missions and human resources for foreign services has been increased following the Ministry's Organisation and Management Survey. 

In addition to these, digital archiving and data management are among the priorities of the Ministry.   

The total budget allocation to the Ministry in the upcoming fiscal year has slightly increased compared to the previous year. However, the budget for other headings except the capital expenditures has decreased. 

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba has said the government would adopt all possible measures for the security and rescue of the Nepalis living in Israel and Iran in view of the present developing scenario there.

The government is all prepared to rescue those Nepalis willing to return home from these countries, she added.  

Minister Rana shared this in a joint meeting with the officials of the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security, the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation and the Ministry of Home Affairs at Foreign Ministry today. 

During the meeting, she shared about the situation developed due to tension between Israel and Iran.

The Foreign Affairs Minister argued that the Nepali Embassy in Israel is actively working at coordination of the Foreign Ministry, and registration has been opened for those Nepalis willing to return home. 

"It is also the responsibility of Israel to facilitate the Nepalis, who are in Israel under G2G process, to return them home safely and to send them to a safer place if they want to. The Israeli government has already been requested to help the Nepalis there to go to other countries from border areas for the same," mentioned Foreign Minister Rana. 

The government is in a ready position to rescue the Nepalis if they want to return home, she opined.

On the occasion, Labour Minister Sharat Singh Bhandari shared that his ministry is also in constant contact with Nepalis there and the government should be involved in preparation to rescue the Nepalis willing to return home. 

He added that work permits have not been issued for those who are about to leave for Israel.  

On June 13, the day the war between Israel and Iran broke out, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement appealing to both parties to exercise maximum restraint and resolve the issue through dialogue, while requesting Nepalis in those countries to stay in contact with the Nepali embassy concerned.

Subsequently, on June 15, a travel advisory with contact details was issued, urging Nepalis to adopt maximum vigilance from a security perspective.

With the current closure of air routes in those countries, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs directed all Nepali embassies in the Gulf  to facilitate processes such as providing 'online visas' for Nepalis wishing to go to safe locations or neighbouring countries.

The Ministry has also started to collect information from Nepalis by opening an online portal, and so far more than 600 people have registered their details on that portal. This process is still going on.

Likewise, the Ministry issued a travel advisory for the second time last Wednesday, requesting Nepali citizens currently in Israel and Iran to exercise maximum caution for security, and advising not to travel to Israel or other Middle Eastern countries from Nepal.

This week, Foreign Minister Rana met with the Israeli Ambassador to Nepal, Shmulik Arie Bass, requesting the Israeli government to make proper arrangements for the safety of Nepali citizens.

Similarly, the Nepali Embassy in Israel and the Nepali Embassy in Qatar overseeing Iran have been directed to establish close contact with relevant government officials, organizations working in the region, and the Nepali community, and to provide 'real-time reporting' to the ministry regarding the matter. 

Currently, there are between 5,500 to 7,000 Nepalis in Israel, and most of them are in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa. Similarly, there are 18 Nepalis in Iran.

Apparently, most of the emergencies do not come with sirens blaring in a world in a state of perpetual flux, not even in a vital part of the rules-based international order protected by near-impregnable defenses. Even if they did, it is highly likely that our capable governments would appear ill-prepared when it comes to dealing with such contingencies. 

Barely two years after the 7 Oct 2023 attack on Israel that killed around 1200 people—including 10 Nepali students and saw the abduction of 250 others (including Bipin Joshi, a Nepali student)—this stark reality of our ill-preparedness in dealing with crisis situations, especially a swift rescue of Nepali nationals caught in adverse situations abroad, has come us a-haunting again. 

Escalating hostilities between arch-nemeses Iran and Israel have given rise to concerns over the safety and security of Nepali nationals in a restive Mideast—most of them migrant workers. According to some reports, Israel is home to 5000-7000 Nepali workers. Other than that, our government, in a typical fashion, does not have the exact number of Nepalis living in the restive region. 

Nothing out of the blue, right? 

In the wake of the renewed hostilities, the government is doing its bit to “ensure” the protection of Nepalis. Recently, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Arzu Rana Deuba, held a meeting with Israeli Ambassador to Nepal, Shmulik Arie Bass, where she asked the government of Israel to ensure their safety. The ambassador’s reply—that Nepalis in Israel were so far safe—must have provided a much-needed immediate relief to the government. 

Other than that, the government has directed Nepali ambassadors to Israel and Qatar, which is playing the role of a facilitator to de-escalate the Iran-Israel conflict, to remain vigilant regarding the safety of Nepali citizens in their respective regions.  

The government has also approached a number of countries to help with the rescue of stranded Nepalis, if they are planning to rescue their nationals anytime seen. 

That the government is not twiddling its thumbs in a crisis situation like this provides some relief. But these random activities also lay bare the lack of a credible plan for a swift rescue of Nepali nationals caught in crisis situations like wars, conflicts, natural disasters and domestic unrest abroad.

The sooner the government comes up with such a plan by allocating necessary means and resources, the better. 

But such a plan—and its execution—should not mark the end of the government’s responsibilities toward outmigrating Nepali nationals. In the long run, the government should channelize its energies on bringing to an end the exodus of Nepalis and tapping their boundless potentials for national progress and prosperity.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Arzu Rana met with Israeli Ambassador to Nepal, Shmulik Arie Bass, on Monday to discuss the evolving situation resulting from the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran. During the meeting held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Minister Rana inquired about the condition of Nepali citizens currently in Israel amid the conflict. She expressed concern over the safety of Nepalis living there and requested the ambassador to ensure their protection.

Ambassador Bass assured the minister that Nepalis in Israel are currently safe and that the Israeli government is committed to the security of all foreign nationals, including Nepalis.

The Foreign Ministry has instructed Nepali embassies in Israel and Qatar to prioritize the safety and well-being of Nepali citizens residing in Israel and Iran. Minister Deuba also held telephone conversations with Nepali ambassadors in Tel Aviv and Doha, directing them to remain in close contact with Nepali nationals and provide regular updates on security advisories issued by the respective governments.

According to the ministry, around 5,500 Nepalis are currently in Israel and 12 in Iran. Given the escalating conflict, the Government of Nepal is “closely monitoring the developments and will take all necessary steps to ensure the safety and interests of Nepali nationals in the region”.

The ministry has also requested Nepalis in need of assistance to contact the Nepali embassies in Tel Aviv and Doha (Qatar). The Nepali Embassy in Pakistan concurrently looks after matters concerning Iran in the absence of an embassy in the Gulf nation. Nepal and Iran established diplomatic relations in 1964. However, Nepal closed its embassy in Tehran in 1981 following the Islamic Revolution.

Against this backdrop, coordination for Nepalis in Iran is facilitated through the Nepali Embassy in Qatar.

Meanwhile, Biratnagar Metropolitan City Mayor Nagesh Koirala, who had traveled to Israel to study cooperative practices, remains stranded due to the closure of international borders amid the conflict. Mayor Koirala is reportedly taking shelter in a bunker. He stated that he is currently safe in a city located 30 kilometers from the capital. He was scheduled to return to Nepal on June 20, but the escalating tensions and airport closures have made his return uncertain.

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba held a meeting with Israeli Ambassador to Nepal Shmulik Arie Bass at her office on Monday and took updates about the Israel-Iran conflict and latest political developments there.

On the occasion, the Minister expressed her concerns over the situation of Nepali nationals in Israel, urging the government of Israel to ensure their safety.

The ambassador apprised the Minister that Nepalis in Israel are so far safe.. 

On Sunday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Nepali nationals currently in Israel and Iran are safe. 

The Foreign Minister also spoke with the Nepali ambassadors to Israel in Tel Aviv and Qatar in Doha, requesting them to remain vigilant regarding the safety of Nepali citizens in their respective regions. 

Qatar is playing a facilitator's role in efforts to de-escalate the Israel-Iran conflict.

The Ministry stated that it is closely monitoring the situation, which has been unfolding over the past few days, and will take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of Nepali nationals when necessary.

Arzu Rana Deuba, Minister for Foreign Affairs, has called for deeper India–Nepal cooperation amid global challenges such as climate change, geopolitical shifts, and rapid technological transformation. Emphasizing economic partnership, green energy, digital innovation, and regional integration, she stated, “Nepal and India must transform proximity into prosperity by improving connectivity, from roads and railways to digital infrastructure.”

Speaking at a program jointly organized by Centre for Social Innovation and Foreign Policy (CESIF), Nepal, and the Ananta Aspen Centre here in Kathmandu, she highlighted progress on the Pancheshwar Hydropower Project as a step toward the joint goal of exporting 10,000 MW of electricity to India, noting shared commitment to a greener, more interdependent future.  Deuba also stressed that Nepal and India face common security threats, making collaboration in security and strategic sectors vital for regional stability and mutual resilience, according to a press statement issued by the organizer.

Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava has reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening the India–Nepal partnership under the “Neighborhood First” policy, emphasizing that borders should serve as bridges of connectivity. The envoy highlighted growing cooperation across infrastructure, energy, trade, digital payments, and people-to-people linkages, citing Nepal’s significant electricity exports to India and the growing use of India’s UPI system in Nepal as examples of mutually beneficial progress.

He underscored shared security concerns, particularly the threat of cross-border terrorism, and appreciated Nepal’s unequivocal support following the April 2025 Pahalgam attack, which claimed the life of a Nepali citizen, according to a press statement issued by organizer.

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba has expressed her hope that joint partnership and connectivity in various sectors between Nepal and India would lay the foundation for shared prosperity between the two nations.

Inaugurating the Nepal-India Strategic Dialogue in Kathmandu today, she underscored the need to speed up cooperation in trade, transit and investment between the two countries and advance economic partnership through connectivity.

 “I look forward to a future where ginger from Nepali farmers reaches the Mumbai market within 24 hours and an Indian tourist reaches Pokhara on an evening flight after finishing a morning meeting in Delhi. This kind of proximity should be the basis for economic prosperity for the citizens of the two countries.”

Citing the ago-old Nepal-India relations, built on shared values, culture and emotions and people-to-people contacts, she said enhancing cooperation and connectivity would help shape a prosperous future for both countries.

She stressed the need for investing in roads, railways, waterways, air routes, and digital infrastructure to increase mutual connectivity. “A seamless connectivity between the two countries will not only support regional and global supply chains, but also enhance transit trade and border economies. This will benefit the citizens of both countries.”

Stating that the current global economic scenario is shifting towards a knowledge-based economy, services and digital platforms, Minister Rana stressed the need for both countries to jointly focus their efforts on digital economy, technology and innovation, modern education system, skill development and creative economy.

Highlighting the energy sector as a notable example of cooperation between the two neighbors, she said that Nepal’s vast hydropower potential will provide a clean, renewable energy source, which she said will be useful for the future generations.

She added India's commitments to importing 10,000 MW of electricity from Nepal in the coming decade reflects Nepal-India cooperation in the energy sector. "The two countries have further strengthened cooperation in the power sector, including developing transmission interconnections, grid connectivity and power exchange, and cross-border power trade."

Minister Rana proposed collaboration between India's expertise in digital innovation and Nepal's young and tech-savvy population. "We should promote tech hubs, start-ups and digital innovation platforms in mutual cooperation and let our youth work together, use technology and move forward on the path of prosperity."

Calling for joint efforts to tackle shared challenges posed by climate change especially amid rapid technological advancements and shifting geopolitical dynamics, she expressed gratitude to the Government of India for its cooperation and support for successfully organising the "Sagarmatha Sambaad" recently in Nepal.

Reiterating Nepal's commitment to a future of peace, stability and prosperity through partnerships with its neighbors and international friends, the minister underscored that such dialogues are vital for deepening Nepal-India relations, promoting the exchange of ideas, and strengthening the people-to-people relations.

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba returned home last night after attending the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organisation for Mediation (IOMed) organised in Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, on May 30.

She attended the ceremony as an observer at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

A total of 32 countries signed the Convention, while more than 50 countries and over 20 international organisations participated in the event. The organisation aims to resolve international disputes between states, citizens, business and individuals across borders through mediation.

Meanwhile, on the sidelines of the event, the minister held a bilateral meeting with Minister Wang, which focused on strengthening the friendly relations between Nepal and China. Additionally, the meeting touched on expanding economic, technical and commercial relations between the two countries and on the timely completion of development projects in Nepal supported by China.

“As this year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China, a discussion was also held on celebrating this occasion with special events and continuing the exchange of high-level visits between the two countries,” Minister Rana said.

The Nepali delegation led by Minister Rana included Head of the Northeast Asia Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Bhrigu Dhungana and Consul General of Nepal in Hong Kong Dr Bindeswar Prasad Lekhak, as well as representatives from the Ministry and the Consulate General in Hong Kong.

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba has described her five-day visit to Japan as 'fruitful'.

Upon her return home last night, she stated that her visit has helped further strengthen Nepal-Japan relations while expanding cooperation in various development sectors.

Minister Rana informed media persons that she held various important meetings with Japanese officials, including Foreign Minister IWAYA Takeshi, discussing various issues ranging from strengthening bilateral relations, and cooperation in various projects.

“During this visit, we discussed various issues of Nepal-Japan relations, ongoing cooperation and future projects in Nepal. Similarly, the visit also provided an opportunity to learn about policies and welfare systems implemented in Japan for senior citizens,” she said.

A bilateral meeting between Minister Rana and her counterpart Takeshi touched on various aspects of Nepal-Japan bilateral relations, mutual interests, and common global concerns. Minister Rana expressed her gratitude for Japan's continued support in Nepal's development journey.

On May 23, the minister also met with President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Dr Tanaka Akihiko, and discussed the timely implementation and completion of JICA-funded projects in Nepal. She thanked Japan for its long-standing support to Nepal's economic and social development endeavors.

Earlier, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, IKUINA Akiko, paid a courtesy call on Minister Rana on the sidelines of the recently concluded "Sagarmatha Sambad" last week in Kathmandu.

She expressed her appreciation for Akiko's active participation in the dialogue.

While in Japan, Minister Rana also addressed an international conference on senior citizens in Tokyo and shared Nepal's efforts and challenges in policy development and welfare for senior citizens.

Upon her arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, she was welcomed by officials including Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amrit Bahadur Rai.

Foreign Minister Rana had left for Japan last Monday.

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba, who is on an official visit to Japan, held a meeting today with her Japanese counterpart IWAYA Takeshi at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tokyo. 

The meeting focused on various issues of Nepal-Japan bilateral relations, mutual interests and common concerns, marking the 70th anniversary of Nepal-Japan relations, which began in 1956, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

During the meeting, Minister Rana expressed her appreciation for Japan's long standing cooperation in Nepal's economic, social and other sectors. She also urged Japan to continue its support, especially as Nepal is set to graduate from a least developed country to a developing nation by 2026. 

Minister Rana extended an invitation to Minister Takeshi to visit Nepal next year to mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Highlighting investment opportunities in Nepal, she requested Takeshi to encourage Japanese industrialists and businessmen to invest, ensuring investment security and assurance. 

She also requested the Japanese government to consider launching direct flights to Nepal, a proposal to which Minister Takeshi agreed to facilitate.

Referring to the centuries-old relationship between Nepal and Japan, she said, “The two countries have had ancient socio-cultural relations inspired by the teachings of Lord Gautam Buddha. Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, is also a cultural bridge between Nepal and Japanese citizens.”

Acknowledging the inflow of thousands of Japanese tourists to Nepal every year particularly for study and observing the natural and cultural wonders of Nepal, including Lumbini, the two leaders discussed the possible cooperation in tourism in the coming days. 

Additionally, the Foreign Minister expressed her gratitude for Japan's active engagement in the recently concluded "Sagarmatha Sambaad" organised by Nepal this week (May 15-18) , praising the role of the Japanese delegation led by Japanese Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs IKUINA Akiko. 

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba has left for Japan to participate in the international conference on social isolation in senior citizens, which is starting tomorrow in Tokyo. She left for Japan last night.

The conference theme is -“Addressing Social Isolation and Loneliness Among Older People.”

Minister Rana is scheduled to address the conference on behalf of Nepal.

The conference organised by the Foundation for the Welfare and Education of the Asian People will have the participation of ministers, senior government officials, and social activists from more than 12 countries.

Minister Rana, who has been working for a long time in the field of economic uplift and social protection of Nepali women through Rural Women and Development Centre and organizations like the Safe Motherhood Network, has been invited as the special guest of the programme.

While in Japan, the Foreign Minister is scheduled to hold important bilateral meetings. She is set to return home next Saturday.