Ambassadors' Club, IRGDD inaugurated; The Diplomat Nepal magazine launched in Kathmandu
KATHMANDU, MAY 19
In a landmark event for Nepal's diplomatic engagement, the Ambassadors' Club and the International Relations and Global Diplomacy Dialogue (IRGDD) were officially inaugurated in Kathmandu on Sunday. The event also marked the launch of The Diplomat Nepal, the country's first magazine dedicated to diplomacy and international relations.
Chief guest and former Prime Minister Dr. Baburam Bhattarai described the initiative as a crucial moment in Nepal's evolving global role. "The global order is beginning to change rapidly, and Nepal must no longer remain on the sidelines," he said. "This initiative is a timely and necessary response at a moment when the world demands more dialogue and decisive action-rooted in peace, proactive sovereignty, and meaningful contributions to justice," he added.
Dr. Bhattarai emphasized that the Ambassadors' Club, the IRGDD, and The Diplomat Nepal provide a "soft space" for fostering trust and shaping foreign policy through dialogue and inclusivity. "These platforms address critical issues such as labor rights, climate change, and the empowerment of women and youth-not simply reacting to global intimacies, but actively shaping Nepal's future."
Dr. Sarmila Parajuli Dhakal, President of both the Ambassadors' Club and IRGDD, said the stated that this is not just the launch of an initiative - it is the beginning of a journey. "A journey that takes Nepal to the heart of global conversations. Nepal's voice, rooted in peace and resilience, is stepping onto the world stage. In the global arena, Nepal carries the voice of hope, of clarity, and of courage. Small nations must rise - not in conflict, but in conviction. We must speak with clarity, engage with compassion, and continue forward with courage. In the face of global change, we must help shape it - not just react to it," she said.
Dr. Dhakal added that diplomacy must be inclusive, driven by values, not colors, borders or status. "This moment highlights our unwavering commitment to peace, dialogue, and shared progress. As diplomats, Nepal must be a clear and confident voice-not just for itself, but for all who strive for equity and understanding," she said.
Former Foreign Minister Ramesh Nath Pandey underscored the need for Nepal to define its global presence through strategic engagement and principled diplomacy. "The IRGDD is the answer to that challenge - a platform where Nepal does not wait to be spoken for, but speaks with conviction, purpose, and principle," he said.
Former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sujata Koirala called the new platforms "timely and transformative," particularly in an era of global crises and climate vulnerability. Citing Nepal's longstanding contributions to UN peacekeeping, global advocacy, and principled foreign policy, Koirala highlighted that Nepal's ancient cultural heritage positions it to offer unique moral and diplomatic leadership on the world stage.
DP Aryal, Acting President of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) mentioned that these initiatives will help improve the complex diplomatic practices taking place in Nepal and the world. "At present, when the world is evolving at a fast pace with the challenges of the climate crisis, artificial intelligence, and migration, traditional practices should be replaced by new ones. These initiatives will play a major role in bringing and promoting these new ideas," he said.
Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Egyptian Ambassador to Nepal, Noha Hamdy Ahmed, delivered the vote of thanks. She praised Nepal's diplomatic tradition of professionalism and hospitality, and said the IRGDD and Ambassadors' Club would enhance Nepal's international cooperation.
UN Resident Coordinator to Nepal, Hana Singer Hamdy, welcomed the launch of The Diplomat Nepal, calling it an inspiring platform for creative and strategic dialogue. "This issue is rich with thoughtful articles and beautiful photographs - a celebration of resilience and vision," she said, noting its emphasis on multilateralism, climate change, and diaspora engagement.
The Diplomat Nepal was jointly unveiled by former PM Dr. Bhattarai, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, Minister for Forest and Environment Ain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri, Minister for Labor Sarad Singh Bhandari, Minister for Youth and Sports Teju Lal Chaudhary, former DPM Sujata Koirala, former FM Ramesh Nath Pandey, Acting RSP Chair Aryal, publisher Bimal Dhakal, Ambassador Ahmed, UN's Hamdy, and other diplomats and guests. The event concluded with a ceremonial cake cutting to mark the beginning of the new initiative.
