KATHMANDU, MAY 19

A delegation from the European Union paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli today.

This marks the first occasion in Nepal that such a high number of EU delegates, including Veronique Lorenzo, EU Ambassador to Nepal, have assembled in Kathmandu. They are visiting the capital to participate in the three-day inaugural Sagarmatha Sambaad, held from May 16 to 18.

During the meeting, discussions focused on the 51-year-long diplomatic ties between Nepal and the EU, and the importance of EU cooperation in fostering Nepal's stability, economic growth, and good governance.

Prime Minister Oli briefed the delegation on Nepal's recent progress in economic development and governance following key milestones such as the end of the armed conflict, the peaceful people's movement, comprehensive peace talks, and the promulgation of the Constitution through the Constituent Assembly.

Highlighting that the current coalition government-formed by the two major political parties, the CPN (UML) and the Nepali Congress (NC)-is committed to furthering development and good governance, the Prime Minister urged the EU to invest in Nepal to support prosperity and job creation.

Reaffirming Nepal's commitment to its federal democratic republic-an outcome of the people's struggle-he asserted, 'There is no turning back. Stability and prosperity is Nepal's chosen path.'

He added that 'Friendship with all, animosity with none' is the cornerstone of Nepal's foreign policy, stressing the nation's balanced diplomatic ties with both India and China, as well as its commitment to maintaining amicable relations globally.

The Prime Minister thanked the EU delegation for their participation in the Sagarmatha Sambaad, appreciating their engagement with the event's theme: 'Climate Change, Mountains, and the Future of Humanity.'

He further stated that the issues of transitional justice would now be addressed without further delay, as relevant laws have already been enacted and two commissions have been established in consultation with stakeholders.

In response, the EU ambassadors reaffirmed their continued support to Nepal in areas such as education, infrastructure, healthcare, energy, information technology, and climate change. They also pledged to collaborate with Nepal on its broader socio-economic development goals.

Also present at the meeting were Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister Bishnu Prasad Rimal and senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.