Tokyo: Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Arzu Rana Deuba, currently on an official visit to Japan, engaged in a bilateral meeting with Japanese Foreign Minister IWAYA Takeshi at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tokyo. The talks centered on the multifaceted Nepal-Japan bilateral relations, mutual interests, and shared concerns, marking the 70th anniversary of Nepal-Japan relations, which commenced in 1956.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Dr Rana expressed her gratitude for Japan’s enduring support in Nepal’s economic and social sectors. She emphasized the need for continued cooperation, particularly as Nepal progresses towards transitioning from a least developed country to a developing nation by 2026.
During the meeting, Dr Rana invited Minister Takeshi to visit Nepal next year to commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations. She highlighted the investment opportunities in Nepal and urged Takeshi to encourage Japanese industrialists and businessmen to invest, assuring them of investment security.
Dr Rana also proposed the initiation of direct flights between Nepal and Japan, a suggestion that Minister Takeshi agreed to facilitate. She underscored the historical socio-cultural relations between the two countries, inspired by the teachings of Lord Gautam Buddha, with Lumbini serving as a cultural link.
The discussion also touched upon the steady influx of Japanese tourists to Nepal, particularly for educational purposes and to explore the natural and cultural landmarks, including Lumbini. The leaders explored potential collaborations in tourism moving forward.
Furthermore, Dr Rana conveyed her appreciation for Japan’s active participation in the recently concluded “Sagarmatha Sambaad,” organized by Nepal, commending the contribution of the Japanese delegation led by Japanese Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs IKUINA Akiko.