Kathmandu, November 21

The United Nations Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Asia and the Pacific today resumed operation from its headquarters in Kathmandu following a temporary relocation in Bangkok, Thailand, after the devastating earthquakes of Nepal in April 2015.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Prakash Sharan Mahat, and the visiting UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Under-Secretary-General Kim Won-soo jointly unveiled a plaque commemorating the resumption of operations from its new premises based in Lagankhel, Lalitpur.

Since 2008, the Regional Centre has strengthened its capacity to implement regional activities in support to member states of Asia and the Pacific on disarmament, arms control and non-proliferation, according to a statement released by the Disarmament Affairs headquarters.

Addressing the function, Foreign Minister Mahat reiterated Nepal’s commitment to providing its fullest support to strengthening the Disarmament Centre.

He highlighted Nepal’s engagements in disarmament initiatives, that includes substantive contribution to UN peacekeeping operations and consistent and unambiguous stand against terrorism in all forms and manifestations.

United Nations Under Secretary General Kim arrived here for a daylong visit today and attended the function to mark the resumption of the centre’s operation .