KATHMANDU, MAY 1
Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal held a telephone conversation with his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha on Thursday, discussing bilateral relations and the issue of Nepali nationals detained in Ukraine.
During the call, Minister Khanal urged the Ukrainian government to release and repatriate nine Nepali nationals held as prisoners of war on humanitarian grounds. He reiterated that Nepal does not permit its citizens to be recruited into foreign armies, except in countries with longstanding bilateral arrangements.
In response, Minister Sybiha said Ukraine is open to discussions on the matter.
The two ministers also reviewed Nepal–Ukraine relations and expressed satisfaction over the existing ties, reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, tourism and education.
On the occasion, Minister Sybiha congratulated Khanal on his appointment and wished him a successful tenure.
