Kathmandu, February 9

The Ministry of Federal Affairs and Local Development has issued a circular to all its divisions, Kathmandu Metropolitan City, district development committees, sub-metropolitan cities and municipalities to strictly comply with the Diplomatic Code of Conduct, 2011.

A decision to this effect was taken by a secretary-level meeting held yesterday after the Ministry of Foreign Affairs called for adherence to the code of conduct by government agencies and persons holding public post. It is applicable to office-bearers who have been enjoying remuneration or facilities from state coffers, read a circular issued by the MoFALD today.

The code of conduct requires government agencies and officials to make official meetings, contacts, negotiations and communications with foreign governments, officials, and diplomats, including international organisations and their representatives more systematic and dignified.

It provides that all communications and correspondences with foreign governments, diplomats, and international agencies must be channelled through the MoFA in accordance with the Allocation of Business, 2008 of the Government of Nepal.

Similarly, the representation of MoFA must be ensured while holding official talks and meetings with diplomats and visiting foreign dignitaries and reports of such meetings must be submitted to the MoFA as well as to the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers.

The law has also stipulated a provision of a high-level monitoring committee and a permanent monitoring committee to monitor compliance with the code of conduct.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs is the coordinator of the High-level Monitoring Committee while the secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is the coordinator of the Permanent Monitoring Committee.