Kathmandu, March 10

Nepal has become the 34th member state of Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) — an inter-governmental body aiming to promote interdependence among Asian countries.

Nepal got this status during the ACD’s 14th ministerial meeting that concluded today in Bangkok, Thailand.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Kamal Thapa, who had flown to Bangkok yesterday, addressed the meeting.

Nepal had formally requested ACD membership in August 2015.

ACD was inaugurated in June 2002 in Cha-Am, Thailand with the initiative of 18 founding countries of Asia.

Its members include Thailand, India, China, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka and South Korea.

After addressing the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Thapa reached New Delhi today itself. He is set to take part in the World Cultural Festival being organised by the Art of Living Foundation, headed by Indian spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.