Nepal

Swiss–Nepal friendship marked with launch of 70-year commemorative photobook

By THT Online

KATHMANDU, MAY 28 Nepal–Switzerland diplomatic relations spanning seven decades were commemorated on Wednesday with the unveiling of a special photobook highlighting major milestones in bilateral cooperation. The book titled 'Bridging Nations – 70 Years of Swiss–Nepal Friendship' was launched at a ceremony in Kathmandu attended by former finance minister Rameshore Prasad Khanal and Markus Leitner, Head of the Asia and Pacific Division at Switzerland's Federal Department of Foreign Affairs. The publication showcases the evolution of Nepal's trail bridge programme, a flagship development initiative under Swiss cooperation. The programme has expanded from 29 bridges in its early phase to more than 10,000 bridges by 2023, significantly improving rural connectivity and access to essential services across Nepal. Danielle Meuwly, Ambassador of Switserland to Nepal, said the achievement reflected a partnership built 'with Nepal' through government leadership, community participation and Nepali technical expertise. Speaking at the event, Markus Leitner said the cooperation demonstrated how international partnerships can address local challenges while strengthening ties between countries. The photobook is expected to serve as both a historical record and a showcase of Nepal–Switzerland development cooperation over the past 70 years.