Ambassador Thompson’s travel diary

KATHMANDU: Westerners have a strong passion for traveling. They dedicate their time and effort to saving money so that they can explore various corners of the world. 

Experiencing the world firsthand through travel is often considered more authentic than gathering information solely from books. Exploring new places is a characteristic deeply ingrained in western culture. And it is not limited to ordinary citizens. Diplomats in different missions in Nepal take time from their busy schedule and reach to various corners of the country. Some foreign ambassadors in Nepal have included traveling as their interest in their social media accounts. One such example is Dean R Thompson, the US ambassador to Nepal. In just six months, Ambassador Thompson has traveled to all seven provinces, immersing himself in the geography, people’s lives, and cultural intricacies of the mountains, hills, and plains. 

Ambassador Thompson arrived in Nepal two weeks after Ambassador Randy Berry completed his term in Nepal. He presented the letters of credence to President Bidya Devi Bhandari on October 21. He then remained busy in diplomatic engagements focusing on 75 years of Nepal-US relations and cooperation.

In a video message released right after assuming office, Thompson said, “We love the outdoors, be it golfing and cycling, and can’t wait to hit the best of Nepal’s trail. I have heard Nepal described as culturally rich and ethnically diverse with awe-inspiring landscapes. We look forward to meeting many of you very soon.”

With the visit of Sudurpashchim Province in May, Thompson has reached all seven provinces of the country in just six months in office. Thompson visited sites like Swayambhu, Boudhanath, and  Patan Durbar Square in Kathmandu valley and developed a fondness for Newari cuisine. He has also shown a keen interest in heritage reconstruction. Several archaeological sites in the Kathmandu Durbar Square, including Gaddi Baithak, were renovated with US assistance. Ambassador Thompson closely observed the progress and intricacies involved in the reconstruction of these heritage sites.

Ambassador Thompson fostered a deeper connection with the Nepali people during the festive occasion of Tihar. He enthusiastically participated in cultural practices, including the worship of his dog during Kukur Tihar. His involvement extended to other Nepali celebrations, such as Maghe Sankranti or Phagu Poornima. He visited many temples and received tika, garland and blessings at various temples. He has shared share all these moments on his Twitter page.

Right after his arrival in Nepal, he got an opportunity to observe the elections for the House of Representatives and province assemblies. As a conscientious citizen from a democratic nation, it is natural for Ambassador Thompson to take a keen interest in the electoral process in Nepal. Ambassador Thompson, who also holds expertise in defense matters, has said that Nepal’s democracy is gradually institutionalizing itself. While acknowledging that it is natural to have some challenges, he says the democratic process will sustain even if it takes some time.

Ambassador Thompson has reached all seven provinces of the country. During his visits, he immersed himself in the diverse social and cultural fabric of each province. He interacted with people from various castes, languages, and cultures.

Ambassador Thompson shares his experiences writing engaging updates about the places he visits. The videos he posts have reached thousands of viewers. These captivating accounts serve as an invitation for those interested in visiting Nepal. He interacts with local people as part of his personal visits or through engagements with the USAID. He has specifically addressed the hardships experienced by farmers, acknowledging the indirect impact of the Ukraine war on their livelihoods.

During his visit to the Sudurpashchim Province, Ambassador Thompson held meetings with farmers, overseas returnees, local leaders, and individuals contributing to the community’s economic and sustainable development. Discussions revolved around crucial issues such as forest protection, combating human trafficking, and the United States’ ongoing partnership with Nepal to enhance employment conditions and opportunities in the province.

Accompanied by USAID Nepal director Sepideh Keyvanshad, Thompson explored the remarkable Shuklaphanta National Park. They witnessed firsthand the conservation efforts dedicated to the conservation of black bucks. Impressed by the conservation initiatives, Ambassador Thompson made a commitment to provide support for black buck conservation.

Thompson reached Pokhara in the last week of April. During his four-day stay in the lake city, Ambassador Thompson reiterated his commitment to US support for climate protection, sustainable tourism and entrepreneurship. He even participated in a Scrabble session with volunteers and members of the Scrabble Club Pokhara.

During his visit, Ambassador Thompson engaged in discussions with local businessmen and representatives from the tourism sector to gain insights into the opportunities and obstacles related to promoting tourism in Pokhara. He then enjoyed a cable car ride to  Sarangkot, where he reveled in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna Range. 

Like a regular tourist, Ambassador Thompson enjoyed a refreshing beer on the lakeside area and also hosted a program where he shared captivating descriptions of the city’s scenic beauty. His exploration of Pokhara also included a visit to Begnas Lake.

Ambassador Thompson reached Janakpur on March 31. He spent three days in the cultural city of the Madhesh Province engaging with local officials, former participants in US government programs, and representatives of development agencies. The discussions focused on exploring areas where the United States can provide support in addressing the most pressing issues for the local community. Ambassador Thompson emphasized the detrimental impact of child marriage and the dowry system on girls’ childhood, health, and education, stressing the urgent need to address these issues effectively. He also visited the renowned Janaki Temple during his time in Janakpur, immersing himself in the cultural and religious significance of the site, and enjoying street food.

During his visit to Surkhet, the capital of Karnali Province on December 12, Ambassador Thompson had the opportunity to savor the local cuisine. He expressed a genuine interest in the issue of foreign employment that resonates with the citizens there. “USAID will provide financial assistance to farmers through various programs, aiming to enhance productivity. Additionally, agricultural machinery will be made accessible to those returning from foreign employment,” he added

He also posted pictures of Kakrebihar heritage site in Surkhet.

In February, Ambassador Thompson’s visit to Biratnagar entailed fruitful discussions with local government officials and businessmen, centered around strengthening the partnership between the United States and Nepal. Additionally, he engaged with activists working tirelessly to combat human trafficking.

Thompson also visited Biratnagar’s Central Mosque and experienced up-close Nepal’s religious diversity. He visited the Everest region in Koshi Province twice.

During his first visit outside the valley in the second week of December, Ambassador Thompson ventured to the Tharu settlements of Banke and Bardia. His itinerary included meetings with various groups, such as women farmers, community health volunteers, youth leaders, transgender activists, and civil society organizations engaged in combating human trafficking. He also visited the Bheri-Babai tunnel project and observed the project’s impact and progress.

Ambassador Thompson remains active in Kathmandu as well. He engages in various activities such as riding a bicycle and participating in events organized by youth clubs and groups of former ambassadors. Through these engagements, he calls for increased cooperation between Nepal and the United States, aiming to strengthen their relationship and enhance the visibility of the United States in Nepal. He promotes the rule of law wherever he goes, encourages farmers by visiting their farms, and respects coexistence by visiting temples, monasteries, and mosques.

(All photos US Ambassador’s Twitter handle)