KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 23

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli yesterday congratulated US President-elect Donald Trump in a virtual meeting with the world's wealthiest person, Elon Musk, while also discussing opportunities for digital infrastructure development in Nepal.

Prakash Silwal, PM Press Coordinator, told the Himalayan Times that Trump's victory dominated the conversation. PM Oli congratulated President Trump through Musk, who was a key figure in the Trump election campaign and helped him take office in January.

According to Silwal, who quoted him to THT, 'You played a decisive role in helping Trump win. I would like to congratulate Donald Trump through you. I believe that Nepal-US relations will reach new heights.'

Musk thanked Oli. The discussion between them primarily revolved around the US election.

Musk briefed PM Oli on Starlink. He also informed him of the benefits and facilities that would be available if it were used in Nepal.

The PM said, 'We are interested in improving our digital infrastructure. The internet has become a critical tool for development, and we would be keen to explore Starlink's potential in providing high-speed internet to remote areas of Nepal.'

Musk replied, 'Starlink's mission is to provide internet access to underserved and remote regions globally. Nepal's challenging terrain makes it an ideal candidate for Starlink. We would be happy to discuss further partnerships to enhance connectivity.'

Despite the fact that the company may face difficulties entering Nepal under the country's current policies and regulations, SpaceX representatives have been working to create an environment conducive to providing services through the US Embassy in Nepal.

Silwal also said, 'This is just the beginning; the PM would have meetings and work through the Embassy and diplomatic institutions for a conducive environment for collaboration.'

PM Oli also emphasised SpaceX, another company of Musk in the space sector, saying that his vision for space exploration with SpaceX has inspired many young minds. 'We want to encourage our youth to dream big and pursue careers in technology and science,' Oli said to Musk.

Musk replied, 'Inspiring the next generation is vital. Space exploration isn't just about going to Mars; it's about pushing the boundaries of what humanity can achieve. I'd be glad to see more Nepali students and innovators contributing to this global mission.'

The Starlink delegation previously met with PM Oli and presented and demonstrated its services. The team, which included Starlink's Global Licencing and Marketing Director Rebecca Slick Hunter, met with the PM and provided a formal assurance regarding the company's services, technical aspects, market strategy, Nepal entry plan, and cyber and data security aspects.

According to reports, the American team delivered a presentation on how Starlink's internet service works and how important it is in Nepali geography. Musk also reiterated in his brief conversation with Oli on November 22 that Nepal's difficult terrain makes it an ideal candidate for Starlink.

PM Oli also invited Musk to visit Nepal during the meeting. Taking to Musk-owned social media 'X', formerly known as Twitter, Oli said, 'A short while ago, during my conversation with Mr. Elon Musk, I extended an invitation for him to visit Nepal.'