Nepal has requested Egypt’s help for the release of Bipin Joshi, a hostage held by Hamas militants. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli spoke with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, appreciating Egypt’s mediation efforts. Joshi, an agricultural study participant, remains unaccounted for, as Nepal actively engages multiple nations for his safe return while also preparing for the Sagarmatha Sambad on climate change.
On October 7, 2023, Bipin Joshi, a Nepali citizen currently held hostage by Hamas militants, has prompted Nepal to formally seek diplomatic assistance from Egypt for his release. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli communicated with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, requesting Egypt’s mediation in this urgent matter. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed appreciation for Egypt’s previous role in securing ceasefire and hostage exchange agreements between Hamas and Israel, urging continued diplomatic efforts for Joshi’s release.
Bipin Joshi, a participant in a “Learn and Earn” agricultural study program, was abducted from the Alumim Kibbutz in Israel during the Hamas attack, which took 251 hostages. Although there have been various hostage releases facilitated by diplomatic negotiations, Joshi remains unaccounted for, with no updates regarding his well-being. Egypt’s involvement has been critical in such negotiations, indicating that its assistance may be vital for Joshi’s safe return.
Nepal’s government is actively pursuing international alliances for Joshi’s release, officially engaging with nations like Israel, Qatar, and Egypt. The discussion between Prime Minister Oli and President Al-Sisi represents a crucial aspect of Nepal’s broader diplomatic strategy. Foreign policy analysts note that leveraging third-party mediators in hostage situations is in line with global diplomatic practices. Dr. Rajan Bhattarai emphasized the significance of Nepal’s outreach to Egypt, highlighting its relevance given Egypt’s historical role in resolving similar crises.
In addition to addressing Joshi’s situation, Prime Minister Oli invited President Al-Sisi to the upcoming Sagarmatha Sambad, an international dialogue on climate change and sustainability hosted by Nepal. This event, scheduled for May 16 to 18 in Kathmandu, will involve significant global participation, focusing on themes such as climate change and its impacts on mountainous regions. President Al-Sisi expressed appreciation for this initiative and extended well-wishes for its success.
The conversation between the two leaders also included discussions about enhancing bilateral relations and potential cooperation in fields such as trade and education. As the situation regarding Joshi unfolds, Nepal remains vigilant and in close contact with key international partners, reassuring Joshi’s family and the public of its commitment to ensuring his safe return.
In summary, Nepal’s request for Egypt’s diplomatic assistance highlights the urgency surrounding the release of Bipin Joshi, a hostage since the October 7 attack by Hamas. Prime Minister Oli’s communication with President Al-Sisi underscores the importance of Egypt’s involvement in securing hostages’ safe return. Nepal is also pursuing international engagement for Joshi’s release while preparing for notable international dialogues on climate change, further emphasizing the nation’s commitment to both humanitarian and environmental issues.
Original Source: nepalmonitor.com
