The US government, represented by Ricky Gill, confirmed its commitment to ongoing economic aid to Nepal during a meeting with Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba. Key topics included the release of Nepali student Bipin abducted by Hamas, Nepal’s diplomatic relations with Ukraine and Moldova, and bilateral cooperation. Dr. Rana’s discussions emphasized Nepal’s international support needs and collaboration in addressing climate change.
Ricky Gill, Senior Director for South and Central Asian Affairs at the National Security Council, reaffirmed the United States government’s commitment to sustaining economic support to Nepal during a meeting with Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba. This discussion occurred at the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, where both parties addressed various elements of Nepal-US relations.
Dr. Rana urged the US to facilitate the release of Bipin, a Nepali student abducted by Hamas militants while studying in Israel. She reiterated her previous requests for US intervention, emphasizing the necessity of diplomatic support for Bipin’s safe return since the Nepali government has been actively pursuing his release.
Additionally, Foreign Minister Dr. Rana engaged in a dialogue with Indian counterpart Dr. S. Jaishankar, focusing on bilateral relations, trade, transit, and hydropower development between the two nations. Dr. Rana expressed Nepal’s commitment to strengthening ties and collaboration for mutual benefit.
On the same day, she met Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, where discussions included the release of seven Nepali nationals held as prisoners of war. Dr. Rana asserted the circumstances surrounding their recruitment into the Russian military were based on human trafficking, stressing that Nepal does not endorse such enlistment.
Sybiha agreed to ensure legal procedures would be followed for the release of these individuals. Furthermore, Dr. Rana sought Ukraine’s support for Nepal’s bid for a position on the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2027-2029 term. An agreement was also signed to enable visa-free entry for diplomatic personnel from both countries.
In her talks with Moldova’s Foreign Minister Mihai Popsoi, Dr. Rana discussed the impact of climate change on Nepal, as well as further cooperation between the two countries. She stressed the importance of international assistance as Nepal prepares to graduate from the status of least developed countries in 2026 and requested support for Nepal’s upcoming candidacy for the UN Security Council. They concluded with confidence in advancing Nepal-Moldova relations during an anticipated visit by Minister Popsoi to Nepal.
The meetings held by Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba with key international leaders reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to fostering strong diplomatic relationships. The discussions highlighted critical issues including economic support, the safety of Nepali citizens abroad, and bilateral cooperation. Notably, appeals for assistance regarding hostage situations and climate change underscored the importance of international collaboration to address regional and global challenges.
Original Source: risingnepaldaily.com
