Kathmandu: The delegates from the European Union today paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. This significant diplomatic engagement marks the first time such a large number of EU delegates, including Veronique Lorenzo, the EU ambassador to Nepal, have convened in Kathmandu. They were in the city to participate in the inaugural edition of Sagarmatha Sambaad, held from May 16-18.
According to National News Agency RSS, discussions during the meeting focused on the 51-year diplomatic relationship between Nepal and the EU, emphasizing the importance of EU cooperation in Nepal’s journey toward stability, economic development, and good governance. Prime Minister Oli highlighted Nepal’s progress in economic development and governance, following transitions from armed conflict and the establishment of a constitution.
The Prime Minister also noted that the coalition government, formed by CPN (UML) and Nepali Congress (NC), is committed to advancing economic growth and governance. He urged EU investment in Nepal to aid prosperity and job creation, asserting the irreversibility of the federal democratic republic system, a product of the people’s struggle.
Oli reiterated Nepal’s foreign policy of “Friendship with all, animosity with none,” underlining its strong ties with neighboring India and China, and its friendly relations with other countries. He expressed gratitude to the EU delegates for participating in the Sagarmatha Sambaad, which was themed “Climate Change, Mountains and the Future of Humanity.”
Furthermore, the Prime Minister assured that the resolution of transitional justice issues would not face further delays, as relevant laws are in place and commissions have been formed in consultation with stakeholders. The EU ambassadors reaffirmed their commitment to support Nepal in areas like education, infrastructure, health, energy, information technology, and climate change, while collaborating on socio-economic development.
The meeting was also attended by Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister, Bishnu Prasad Rimal, and senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.