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Nepal and India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on biodiversity conservation. 

The MoU to this effect was signed in the presence of Minister for Forests and Environment of Nepal, Madhav Prasad Chaualgain, and Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change of India, Bhupendra Yadav, in New Delhi on Wednesday. 

The MoU was signed by Nepal's Ambassador to India Dr Shankar Prasad Sharma, on behalf of Nepal, and by Tanmay Kumar, Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, on behalf of India.

Dr Maheshwor Dhakal, spokesperson at the Ministry of Forests said that senior officials from the governments of Nepal and India were present on the occasion. 

Both Nepal and India are signatories to various international treaties on environmental conservation, including biodiversity, under the United Nations.

There are protected areas and biological corridors in the bordering areas of both nations, providing habitat to many wild animals, including elephants, rhinos, and tigers. These wild animals cross the borders freely without hindrances. 

The MoU, therefore, is expected to play a role in enabling both countries to coordinate and cooperate in the protected areas, biodiversity, and wildlife crime control, adopt a shared strategy related to biodiversity, and develop the capacities of personnel working in the field.

Additionally, Minister Chaulagain said that the MoU will support controlling and regulating poaching and illegal trade of wildlife in cross-border areas, conducting research, studies, and monitoring of wildlife, and raising awareness and building capacity at the local level.

The implementation of the MoU is expected to contribute to the conservation of biodiversity in both countries by conducting regular patrols and meetings in the border areas, exchanging experiences and knowledge, developing and expanding good practices, and sharing immediate information related to wildlife and illegal trade.

The MoU states that both countries can exchange wildlife crime-related information with the South Asia Wildlife Law Enforcement Network (SAWEN) to control and regulate international wildlife crimes.

The Ministry and its subordinate Department of Forests and Soil Conservation and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation at the central level, and the relevant provincial Ministry of Forests and Environment, protected areas, and divisional forest offices will coordinate and collaborate at the local level, to implement the said understanding on behalf of Nepal.

The MoU  stipulates that the agreement will be automatically renewed every five years unless a nation provides written information through diplomatic means, and it will be reviewed every three years.

The MoU states that any problems arising during the implementation will be resolved through mutual understanding.

The Chinese government is to provide USD four million to Nepal for the elections to the House of Representatives scheduled for March 5. 

A Cabinet meeting held today decided to accept the amount to be received as the grant. 

Government Spokesperson and Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal also took the decision to approve the investment model for Budhigandaki Project as mentioned in current fiscal year's budget and programme.  

Similarly, Chief Judge of Kathmandu District Court, Diwakar Bhatta, has been appointed Chairperson of Consumer Court Kathmandu with the responsibility of overseeing the functions of Kathmandu District Court as well.  

The meeting also declared the public holidays for 2083 BS as well as to form Gen Z Council, he added.

The first meeting of the Nepal–Portugal Bilateral Consultation Mechanism will be held in Lisbon on Friday. 

The meeting will review the overall status of Nepal-Portugal relations, including issues of common interest, as well as cooperation in regional and multilateral forums.

Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amrit Bahadur Rai, has arrived here to co-chair the meeting, leading the Nepali delegation. 

While in Lisbon, the Foreign Secretary will also meet with other senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Portugal, officially inaugurate the newly opened Nepali Embassy, and hold an interaction with representatives of the Nepali community in Portugal, according to the Embassy of Nepal in Lisbon. 

It is estimated that over 40,000 Nepali nationals are currently residing in Portugal and are employed in various professions.

The Nepali delegation includes senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as Nepali Ambassador to Portugal Prakash Mani Poudel and other officials of the embassy.

The Foreign Secretary will return to Kathmandu on February 22. 

The Bilateral Consultation Mechanism between Nepal and Portugal was established in 2018.

Nepal beat Scotland by seven wickets in a Twenty20 World Cup Group C dead rubber in Mumbai on Tuesday as the Himalayan side signed off from the tournament with a memorable victory, Reuters reported.

Both teams were already packing their bags after the West Indies and England had sealed progress to the Super Eight, but that did not stop Nepal’s fans from turning up in numbers to create a party atmosphere at the Wankhede Stadium.

Chasing 171 for their first victory of the tournament, Nepal got there with four balls to spare thanks to Dipendra Singh Airee’s explosive unbeaten 50 off 23 balls, according to Reuters. 

The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the Wakayama Prefecture of Japan have signed an agreement on tourism cooperation aimed at strengthening tourism diplomacy between Nepal and Japan.

Deepak Raj Joshi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the NTB and Izumi Miyazaki, Governor of the Wakayama Prefecture, signed the MoU amid a programme at NTB office at Bhrikutimandap today.

Under the MoU, both sides have agreed to collaborate on joint promotion, knowledge exchange and sustainable tourism development.

The MoU prioritizes joint tourism promotion and marketing, exchange of tourism-related information and best practices, exchange of visits by experts and officials. 

It also seeks to enhance cooperation in communications and public relations while promoting culturally respectful and sustainable tourism.

During the MoU signing ceremony, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Anil Kumar Sinha acknowledged the visit of the governor-led Japanese delegation as a welcome step. 

Minister Sinha further noted that this collaboration, taking place in the context of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of Nepal–Japan diplomatic relations, would play an important role in advancing sustainable and responsible tourism. 

The Minister remarked, "Both countries attach high importance to cultural values. This partnership, marking 70 years of diplomatic ties between Nepal and Japan, will provide a strong foundation for sustainable tourism." 

Likewise, Mukunda Prasad Niraula, Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, recalled the long-standing relation between Nepal and Japan and termed the agreement a historic step for tourism promotion.

He added that the MoU comes at an opportune time to expand and diversify Nepal’s tourism market, highlighting the country’s identity as the land of the Himalayas and the birthplace of Lord Buddha

Similarly, Izumi Miyazaki, Governor of Wakayama Prefecture, expressed his happiness over the collaboration agreement with Nepal.

He said, "We are happy to have signed an agreement with Nepal, which is rich in history and culture. I am confident that this agreement will further strengthen tourism promotion between Nepal and Wakayama."

Also speaking at the programme, CEO Joshi mentioned that Japan is one of Nepal's important tourism source markets and cited that Japanese tourist arrivals have recently increased by around 8 per cent in the recent time.

The MoU will come into effect from the date of signing. As per the agreement, both parties will designate contact point for coordinating cooperation activities.

Furthermore, the MoU states that both parties will bear their respective expenses.

Although the MoU is not legally binding, this agreement based on mutual goodwill and trust is expected to further enhance the seven-decade long Nepal-Japan relations through tourism cooperation. 

Nepal successfully hosted the panel discussion “Nepal’s Next Decade” at Xavier International College on February 13, bringing together policymakers, entrepreneurs, academics, and youth leaders to discuss the country’s economic and governance priorities for the coming decade.

The event, organized by Students for Liberty, opened with remarks from Nitisha Ban, who stressed that Nepal’s policies over the next 10 years must be evidence-based and rooted in the principles of liberty. 

She emphasized that sustainable progress depends on a governance framework that balances individual freedoms with innovation and economic growth.

Youth activist and advocate Nabin Giri facilitated the main discussion.

Amit Agrawal, Co-Founder of IME Khalti, highlighted Nepal’s potential to generate IT exports worth Rs 2 trillion. 

Urging youth to move beyond the “landlocked mindset,” he called for proactive engagement in AI and entrepreneurial ventures. 

Agrawal warned that weaponised digital regulation could stifle startups and innovation, underscoring the importance of protecting digital property rights to retain talent. 

Sabita Bhandari, Attorney General, addressed governance and accountability, noting that GenZ’s primary demand is good governance and proper legal processes. She clarified that all decisions regarding allegations against her have been made in accordance with the Constitution and Section 36 of the Criminal Procedure Code 2017.

Economic analyst Murahari Parajuli observed that Nepal has yet to achieve meaningful economic transformation despite political upheavals. 

Advocating for personal freedom and an open market economy, he argued against excessive government intervention. 

Dr Arjun Singh Saud of Tribhuvan University highlighted the importance of investing in digital skills and technical expertise. He recommended localizing AI applications in education and healthcare while ensuring curricula align with industry demands.

The discussion concluded with consensus that Nepal’s next decade should be guided by evidence-based policymaking, digital innovation, economic openness, and a commitment to liberty-oriented governance.

Nepal is at a pivotal moment in its history. The country’s economy is slowly recovering from recent shocks, infrastructure projects face delays, and political transitions continue to shape governance. 

Amid these challenges, the World Government Summit (WGS), held annually in Dubai under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, offers World leader’s important lessons on how governments can innovate, collaborate, and become more citizen-centered.

Since its inception in 2013, the WGS has brought together world leaders, policymakers, innovators, and private-sector pioneers to discuss the future of governance.

 The Summit emphasizes forward-looking policies, cross-sector collaboration, and strategic planning to tackle global challenges.

One of its standout concepts, increasingly relevant for Nepal, is the Experience Economy—an approach that leverages culture, tourism, sports, and innovation to create economic value while strengthening national identity and international appeal.

Nepal, with its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, and diverse communities, is uniquely positioned to benefit from this approach. Tourism alone, which was already a significant contributor to Nepal’s GDP, can be expanded beyond traditional trekking routes to include cultural, spiritual, and adventure experiences. However, realizing this potential requires more than natural beauty—it demands strategic investment, coordinated policy, and strong governance.

The Digital Nepal Project, supported by the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, represents a step in the right direction. By creating an integrated citizen portal, digital lockers, and secure data-sharing systems, the project aims to improve service delivery and reduce bureaucratic hurdles. If fully implemented, it could not only streamline citizen services but also attract foreign investment and enhance Nepal’s global image. Similarly, hydropower and infrastructure projects such as the Mid-Hill Highway and Kathmandu–Terai Fast Track can serve as engines of regional development, connecting communities, stimulating commerce, and creating jobs. Yet, mid-year budget reviews show that capital expenditure is lagging at just 12 percent of planned targets, highlighting the need for better project management and timely execution.

At WGS, global experts emphasize that modern governance requires collaboration between governments, private enterprises, and civil society. Nepal can adopt this lesson by creating partnerships to promote sectors like tourism, agriculture, and digital services. For instance, the National Pride Projects, which include strategic infrastructure initiatives, could benefit from closer cooperation with private investors and local communities to overcome delays caused by legal disputes, land acquisition challenges, and resource limitations.

The Summit also highlights the role of governance in shaping the “experience economy”—how governments set frameworks that allow private sectors to innovate while ensuring benefits reach citizens. Nepal has shown promise in remittance-driven growth, with inflows rising 39 percent to Rs 1.62 trillion in the first half of the fiscal year, strengthening foreign reserves. Yet, economic growth remains modest at 3 percent, partly due to slow agricultural recovery and underutilized industrial capacity. By strategically promoting experience-led industries, Nepal can create jobs, diversify income sources, and reduce over-reliance on remittances.

Security, stability, and citizen trust also feature prominently in WGS discussions. As Nepal prepares for elections, ensuring effective governance and inclusive democracy is critical. Political stability, clear policy frameworks, and robust public institutions are necessary not only for development projects but also for attracting tourism, investment, and international collaboration. The Summit underscores that governments must think beyond short-term fixes and focus on citizen-centered policies, transparency, and digital innovation.

Moreover, global examples show that cultural and sports ecosystems are powerful tools to project national identity internationally. Nepal’s rich festivals, traditional arts, and sporting potential, if promoted strategically, can contribute to both soft power and economic growth. For example, Nepal’s recent participation in international sporting events and cultural initiatives has brought global attention, yet these efforts are still largely fragmented. A coordinated approach, aligned with national branding and tourism promotion, could multiply benefits exponentially.

The World Government Summit reminds countries that their strategic advantage is not just geography or natural resources—it is their ability to innovate, collaborate, and deliver value to citizens. For Nepal, this means modernizing governance, streamlining public services, investing in infrastructure, promoting tourism and culture, and building digital resilience. By embracing lessons from WGS, Nepal can transform its challenges into opportunities, ensuring that the next decade strengthens democracy, economic stability, and global engagement.

Nepal’s journey is still unfolding, but the path is clear: the country must think strategically, act collaboratively, and prioritize citizens’ well-being to compete in a world where experiences are not just resources but also drive growth. As global leaders discuss shaping future governments, Nepal has a unique chance to harness its potential, bridge governance gaps, and create an inclusive, future-ready economy that resonates at home and abroad.

(Writer- is a Media Researcher at The UAE Embassy, Kathmandu and a Research Scholar at Tribhuvan University, focusing on media, international relations, and policy analysis.)

(Source: World Government Summit 2026, Ministry of Finance Nepal, Digital Nepal Project Reports)

The 11th edition of the Pakistan–Nepal Friendship T20 Cricket Tournament concluded on Sunday amidst a function at the Pakistan Embassy Plot in Kathmandu. 

Held from February 7 to 15, the annual tournament featured 12 teams from various Nepali cricket clubs, along with the Pakistan Embassy Team. 

Since 2014, the event has been organized each year to celebrate the shared love of cricket between Pakistan and Nepal and to support young players.

Ambassador of Pakistan to Nepal, Abrar H. Hashmi, and special guests presented the trophies, medals, and cash prizes to the winning team, top performers and tournament officials, reads a statement issued by the Embassy of Pakistan in Kathmandu. 

Baluwatar Cricket Academy won the tournament and received the winning trophy and cash prize. The Pakistan Embassy Team secured the runner-up position.

In his remarks, Iqbal Haider, Counsellor (Political & Education), highlighted Pakistan Embassy’s sustained efforts to promote cricket at the grassroots level, noting the tournament’s role in nurturing emerging talent in Nepal.

In his closing address, Ambassador Abrar Hashmi reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening youth engagement and sporting exchanges between the two countries. 

He announced that the 12th edition of the tournament in 2027 will expand to participation of 16 teams, according to the statement. 

The Ambassador congratulated all participating teams, particularly the winning team, and thanked Ambassadors, distinguished guests, supporting partners IME Global Bank and Filli Cafe; broadcasting partners Action TV and Dish Home Media Network for live coverage that reached audiences across Nepal and beyond. 

West Indies charged into the Super Eight stage of the Twenty20 World Cup after the two-times champions defeated Nepal by nine wickets in Mumbai on Sunday, with Jason Holder's four-wicket haul and Shai Hope's half-century setting up the win, Reuters reported. 

Chasing a modest 134 for their third straight victory after battling knocks by Nepal's Dipendra Singh Airee (58) and Sompal Kami (26 not out), West Indies eased to victory at Wankhede Stadium with 28 balls to spare.

After paceman Holder's wickets laid the platform, captain Hope (61 not out) and Shimron Hetmyer (46 not out) guided their team home to rule Nepal out of the reckoning for the next stage of the tournament, according to Reuters. 

Nepal have been eliminated from the group stage of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 as they succumbed to a nine-wicket defeat at the hands of West Indies on Sunday. 

Earlier, Nepal had been defeated by Italy and England in their previous two matches.

The ICC T20 World Cup is currently underway at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, India. 

In today’s match, Nepal were invited to bat first after losing the toss. 

The team posted a 134- run target at the loss of eight wickets in 20 overs.

In reply, West Indies chased down the target in just 15.2 overs, losing only one wicket.

Adm. Samuel J. Paparo, commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), has said his visit highlighted Nepal’s leadership in promoting regional stability, disaster preparedness, and peacekeeping. He visited Nepal ahead of the March 5 elections to the House of Representatives (HoR), which are taking place against the backdrop of the September 8–9 Gen Z protest.

The visit highlighted Nepal’s leadership in promoting regional stability, disaster preparedness, and peacekeeping. U.S.-Nepal cooperation in these areas benefits Nepali and American citizens throughout the region and supports global peacekeeping efforts, says a press statement issued by INDOPACOM after the two-day visit.

During his stay, Paparo met Foreign Minister Bala Nanda Sharma and Gen. Ashok Raj Sigdel, Chief of Army Staff of the Nepali Army, to discuss strengthening collaboration in disaster response and Nepal’s significant contributions to United Nations peacekeeping missions.

At the Birendra Peace Operations Training Centre in Panchkhal, Paparo interacted with Nepali peacekeeping professionals and observed pre-deployment training activities. The center plays a vital role in preparing Nepali troops for UN peacekeeping missions and supports multinational peace operations, reinforcing Nepal’s standing as one of the world’s leading troop-contributing countries to UN missions.

An alumni event hosted by the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (APCSS) and its director, Suzanne P. Vares-Lum, brought together Nepali graduates of APCSS programs. The gathering provided a platform for security professionals to exchange ideas and explore collaborative approaches to regional security challenges.

INDOPACOM and Nepal have maintained close cooperation in strengthening disaster response capabilities through joint exercises, technical assistance, and the provision of non-combat equipment such as helicopters, vehicles, and communication systems. U.S. training and logistical support have also enhanced Nepal’s capacity to conduct humanitarian and peacekeeping operations, the statement said.

Officials said the partnership aligns with Nepal’s goal of enhancing self-reliance while contributing to regional resilience and preparedness. The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command reiterated its commitment to promoting stability across the region through security cooperation, peaceful development, and coordinated responses to emerging challenges, according to the statement.

Paparo’s visit highlighted Nepal’s strategic importance in South Asia and reaffirmed its leadership role in fostering regional stability and advancing global peacekeeping efforts.

During then Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali’s visit to the United States on December 18, 2018, then U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo highlighted Nepal’s central role in a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific and in global affairs.

 The 2019 U.S. Department of Defense Indo-Pacific Strategy Report officially described Nepal as a valued partner. The report listed Nepal as a member of the State Partnership Program (SPP), which was later rejected by the Nepal government.

This week, House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on South and Central Asia Chairman Bill Huizenga has said that recent elections in Bangladesh and Nepal present new opportunities for U.S. engagement in South Asia.

In his opening remarks at a subcommittee hearing titled “South Asia: U.S. Foreign Policy in the Region,” Huizenga described South and Central Asia as a dynamic region where young and growing populations are increasingly drawn to Western cultures and values rather than to what he called China’s “authoritarian alternative.”

Bordering India, both Nepal and Bangladesh are undergoing significant political transformations. Bangladesh held general elections on February 12, following the July 2024 revolution that led to the ouster of an authoritarian government in September 2025. Meanwhile, Nepal is set to hold democratic elections on March 5 after youth-led protests overthrew the previous government.

Nepal suffered a 10-wicket defeat at the hands of Italy in their ICC Men's T20 World Cup match held at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, India.

Chasing a target of 124-run victory posted by Nepal, Italy completed the target in 12.4 overs. For Italy, Anthony Mosca scored 62 runs while Justin Mosca gathered 60 runs.

Earlier, invited to bat first after losing the toss, Nepal gathered 123 runs in 19.3 overs at the loss of all wickets. 

For Nepal, Aarif Sheikh scored the highest 27 runs while Rohit Poudel made 23 runs, Aasif Sheikh 20 runs, Dipendra Singh Airee 17 runs and Karan KC 18 runs (not out). 

Italy's Crishan Kalugamage and Ben Manenti took three wickets and two wickets respectively while Jaspreet Singh and JJ Smuts took one wicket each. 

This is the second consecutive defeat of Nepal, which is in Group 'C'. With this consecutive loss, Nepal's possibility of entering Super Eight has become weak. 

However, this is the first win of Italy.

India on Thursday handed over the third tranche of election-related assistance to Nepal. 

Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava presented the assistance  to Minister for Home Affairs of Nepal Om Prakash Aryal at a ceremony held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kathmandu. 

The latest tranche includes more than 270 vehicles and other logistical supplies, among them 50 trucks designated for the Nepal Army, in line with Kathmandu’s request to support election preparedness.

Chief of Army Staff General Ashok Raj Sigdel formally received the trucks on behalf of the Nepal Army.

Speaking at the program, Home Minister Aryal thanked the Indian side for the timely and significant nature of assistance provided to Nepal. He also conveyed his appreciation for the mutually beneficial and comprehensive nature of cooperation between the two countries, which is marked by mutual trust, friendship, and a shared adherence to democratic values.

The first two tranches of such election-related assistance, comprising over 310 vehicles and other supplies from the Government of India, have already been handed over to Nepal on January 20 and 29  respectively. Some additional deliveries are expected to take place in batches in the coming days, according to the statement. 

House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on South and Central Asia Chairman Bill Huizenga has said that recent elections in Bangladesh and Nepal present new opportunities for U.S. engagement in South Asia.

In his opening remarks at a subcommittee hearing titled “South Asia: U.S. Foreign Policy in the Region,” Huizenga described South and Central Asia as a dynamic region where young and growing populations are increasingly drawn to Western cultures and values rather than to what he called China’s “authoritarian alternative.”

Bordering India, both Nepal and Bangladesh are undergoing significant political transformations. Bangladesh held general elections on February 12, following the July 2024 revolution that led to the ouster of an authoritarian government in September 2025. Meanwhile, Nepal is set to hold democratic elections on March 5 after youth-led protests overthrew the previous government.

Huizenga said these developments mark “new chapters for engagement” in South Asia and provide an opportunity to redefine U.S. relations with the new governments.

Emphasizing the strategic importance of the region, he reiterated that South and Central Asia remain vital to U.S. foreign policy interests, particularly as their young populations shape the political and economic future of the region.

Here is the full-text of his speech: 

Our strategy there is key to the United States national security and economic strength and our global presence. South and Central Asia is home to nearly 2 billion people, dynamic economies and strategic waterways that shape the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific.

 Throughout the region, the President has successfully negotiated deals that open markets and advance U.S. Economic interests. Now we are going to engage and how we engage will define America's role in Asia for decades to come.

 China has come to the same conclusion, no surprise. Through its belt and road initiative, China engages in predatory lending to further its security interests and force smaller nations into debt traps. Furthermore, China has hardened its border with India, Nepal, and Bhutan, building infrastructure to support its military aspirations.

 Despite its distance from our shores, maintaining a free and open Indian Ocean is a priority for our national and our economic security. The Indian Ocean is one of the busiest maritime corridors on the Earth, carrying the lifeblood of global commerce and energy, including more than 80% of global seaborne oil trade.

Safeguarding these sea lanes through enhanced naval cooperation with partners and allies will only serve to counter China's growing influence and limit its malign behavior in the region. Alongside President Trump, I too see the importance of our naval base on Diego Garcia in the middle of the Indian ocean. 

I echo this sentiment that preserving America's military fortitude in the region will deter Chinese coercion, prevent piracy, and ensure the free flow of American and world trade. Directly north of Diego Garcia, India, the largest democracy in the world and one of the fastest growing economies, remains a vital strategic partner. Just last week, President Trump brokered a historic trade deal with India, completely revamping US engagement with the country. The US-India trade deal sets India's tariff rate at 18%, one of the lowest regionally. Moreover, Delhi has agreed to buy more American energy. This deal will strengthen US-India relations, support American workers through manufacturing and joint technology ventures, and boost our exports.

Strengthening ties with New Delhi through defense cooperation, trade and technology partnerships advances our shared interests. I look forward to increasing cooperation, co-production and investment, especially under the new framework negotiated by the President. Bordering India, Nepal and Bangladesh are undergoing political transformations. 

Bangladesh will hold free elections tomorrow following its 2024 July revolution, which ousted an authoritarian government in September of 2025, Nepalese youth overthrew the government and Nepal will hold democratic elections next month. Both of these instances offer new chapters for engagement in South Asia, defining US relations with these new governments. South and Central Asia is a dynamic region, young growing populations are more often drawn to western cultures and values than to China's authoritarian alternative.

Strategic US led diplomacy will make a difference in building alliances and achieving our mutual beneficial goals throughout the region. Our strategy in South Asia must be comprehensive, anchored in strong partnerships, economic engagement, and a commitment to democratic values. Our engagement in the region must advance American interests, but also continue to contribute to a more secure, prosperous and free Indian Ocean. I look forward to hearing from Assistant Secretary Kapur regarding the administration's South and Central Asia strategy.

The Nepal Institute of International Cooperation and Engagement (NIICE) hosted the Nepal-India Think Tank Forum on Regional Resilience: Strengthening Nepal-India Security Cooperation with the senior experts from major think tanks of India and Nepal. 

Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh (Retd.), the Director General of the United Service Institution of India, oldest think tank of the Indian military shared that “Nepalis courage and valour have been at the forefront of Indian military strength and national security."

He also shared that “Agniveer scheme is open to Nepali citizens at par with Indians, and is akin to the earlier pre-1970s non-pensionable colour service. The scheme offers an opportunity to invest in human capital, with disciplined, motivated, empowered youth that strengthens and enriches society," reads a statement issued by NIICE. 

Ambassador Pankaj Saran, former National Security Advisor of India, praised Nepalis youth and urged youth from both countries to shape the future of Nepal–India relations.

Alok Bansal, Executive Vice President of India Foundation shared that India is a major victim of cross-border terrorism and it has a huge impact on Nepal as well.  

Similarly Professor Sangeeta Thapliyal of Jawaharlal Nehru University said that think tanks should strengthen India–Nepal ties and urged both governments to promote research.

Dr Gaurav Saini, co-founder of the Council for Strategic and Defence Research, noted that while India–Nepal ties are strong, human trafficking, narcotics smuggling, and counterfeit currency are the transnational threats affecting both countries. 

Maj. Gen. Binoj Basnyat, Political and Security Analyst, said that elections alone may not ensure Nepal’s stability and called for inclusive dialogue, according to the statement. 

Anurag Acharya, Director PEI discussed three major avenues including Physical connectivity, highlighted tech integration, religious and cultural tourism and sports as emerging opportunities.

Bibek Dhoj Thapa, Program Coordinator at NIICE emphasized that India–Nepal relations should focus on partnership with the rising youth population, seeing India not as a post-colonial power but as a strategic partner. 

Sumitra Karki, the Director of NIICE emphasized the need to engage academically and policy-wise in enhancing bilateral relationships. 

Nepal lost to England in the opening match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup played at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on Sunday. .

Nepal lost to the twice World Cup winner by four runs. Losing the game with a narrow margin, Nepal missed the opportunity to set a record in Nepal's cricket history.

Chasing the target of 185 runs, Nepal managed  to score 180 runs in 20 overs by losing six wickets.  

For Nepal, Deependra Singh Airi contributed the highest 44 runs with six fours and a six. 

Likewise, Captain Rohit Poudel and Lokesh Bam made 39 runs while Kushal Bhurtel gathered 29 runs. 

As Arif Sheikh made 10 runs, the other batters could not contribute the runs in double digits. 

Ashif Sheikh made seven runs and Gulsan Jha was out in one run. 

Winning the toss, England chose to bat first and made 184 runs in 20 overs by losing seven wickets. 

England's Liam Dawson took two wickets.

For bowling, Deependra Singh Airi and Nandan Yadav took two wickets each while Sher Malla and Sandeep Lamichhane took one each. 

This is Nepal's third participation in the T20 World Cup. Nepal were eliminated in the group stage in the previous two World Cups, including in the previous edition held in 2024 in USA/West Indies.

This is the first time that Nepal are playing against England. 

Nepal are ranked 16th in the T20 rankings, while England is ranked third. 

Nepal are in Group 'C' of the tournament along with England, the West Indies, Italy and Scotland.

Nepal are scheduled to face Italy in its second game on February 12.