Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli of Nepal contacted Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi to request support for the release of Bipin Joshi, held hostage by Hamas since October. Al-Sisi confirmed Egypt’s commitment to assist. The leaders also discussed Nepal’s forthcoming Sagarmatha Sambad on climate change, anticipating significant international participation.
On Wednesday, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli of Nepal reached out to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi via telephone, reiterating Nepal’s plea for assistance in securing the release of Bipin Joshi. Joshi has been held hostage by Hamas militants since October 7, 2023. In the conversation, Oli praised Egypt’s mediating role in the Gaza ceasefire and urged continued diplomatic efforts for Joshi’s release.
The Egyptian president assured Prime Minister Oli that Egypt would prioritize the efforts to secure the release of all remaining hostages, including Joshi, during the subsequent phase of the hostage exchange. The exact condition of Joshi, a Nepali youth abducted while participating in a study program in Israel, remains unverified. Joshi was taken from Alumim Kibbutz, part of a larger group of 251 individuals captured during the conflict, many of whom have since been released.
In addition, President Al-Sisi commended Nepal’s initiative to host the Sagarmatha Sambad, an international climate change and sustainability dialogue. During the discussion, Prime Minister Oli extended an invitation for Al-Sisi’s participation in the upcoming forum, scheduled for May 16 to 18 in Kathmandu. The first edition of the Sagarmatha Sambad will address “Climate Change, Mountains and the Future of Humanity,” expecting to host 160 to 200 delegates, including heads of state and experts.
Emphasizing the significance of global collaboration to combat climate challenges, Prime Minister Oli expressed hope that Egypt’s involvement will enhance the discussions of the summit. The conversation also touched upon strengthening bilateral relations, multilateral cooperation, and the potential for high-level visits between Nepal and Egypt.
In summary, Nepal is urgently seeking Egypt’s assistance for the release of Bipin Joshi, who has been held hostage by Hamas. The communication between Prime Minister Oli and President Al-Sisi highlighted the importance of diplomatic efforts to secure Joshi’s release. Moreover, the leaders discussed the upcoming Sagarmatha Sambad, underscoring the necessity of global cooperation in addressing climate issues.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
