Ricky Gill, a US government official, reaffirmed US economic support for Nepal during a meeting with Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba. The discussions covered Nepal-US relations and the situation of a Nepali student held by Hamas. Additionally, Dr. Rana engaged with Indian, Ukrainian, and Moldovan officials on bilateral cooperation and mutual interests.
On March 19, during the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, Ricky Gill, the National Security Assistant to the President of the United States, reaffirmed the US government’s commitment to providing ongoing economic assistance to Nepal. The discussion took place with the Nepalese Foreign Minister, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, who emphasized various aspects of Nepal-US relations during their meeting.
Dr. Rana urged the US to facilitate the release of Nepali student Bipin, who was abducted by Hamas militants from Israeli territory in October 2023. Expressing the need for US intervention, she reiterated Nepal’s hopes for Bipin’s safe return as the government continues diplomatic efforts on his behalf.
In addition to her engagements with Gill, Dr. Rana met Indian Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, focusing on Nepal-India bilateral relations encompassing trade, mutual interests, and hydropower cooperation. She reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to enhancing these relationships for mutual benefit.
Dr. Rana’s schedule included bilateral discussions with Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha regarding the rights of seven Nepali nationals detained by Ukrainian forces. She emphasized Nepal’s non-involvement in recruiting citizens to foreign militaries and requested their release according to legal norms.
Furthermore, Dr. Rana sought Ukraine’s support for Nepal’s candidacy for the UN Human Rights Council for the term 2027-2029, and the two nations enacted an agreement for visa-free entry for diplomatic passport holders. She also engaged with Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popsoi to discuss cooperation, especially in combating climate change.
Moreover, she informed Minister Popsoi about Nepal’s impending graduation from the least developed country (LDC) status in 2026 and the necessary preparations for that transition. Dr. Rana requested Moldova’s endorsement for Nepal’s positions in international forums, including the UN Security Council, indicating a collaborative spirit for future engagements.
This article highlights the reaffirmation of US support for Nepal, especially regarding ongoing economic assistance. It also details Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba’s diplomatic engagements with her US, Indian, Ukrainian, and Moldovan counterparts, addressing various key issues including student safety, bilateral relations, and international cooperation on climate change and human rights. The aim is to strengthen Nepal’s international standing and ensure the rights and welfare of its citizens abroad.
Original Source: risingnepaldaily.com
