Nepal is a promoter of peace: Guterres [Full Text]

KATHMANDU: United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Tuesday said Nepal is a promoter of peace, a champion of multilateralism, and a staunch supporter of sustainable development and climate action.

“As geopolitical tensions rise, global divisions are becoming deeper and more dangerous. Smaller countries fear becoming collateral damage in competition between great powers. And climate catastrophe is accelerating with a deadly force. In responding to these crises, the world could learn much from Nepal,” Guterres said, in his address to the joint session of federal parliament of Nepal.

Guterres also said it was a privilege to be back in beautiful Nepal. “I first came here in the 1970s. Every time I have visited, I have been astounded. And this trip has been no exception. What I have seen and experienced in the past few days will stay with me always: The sunlight hitting the Himalayas; the warmth of the people; the richness of your cultural diversity. And of course, the sanctity of Lumbini. I thank the government of Nepal for your invitation, your hospitality and your welcome to me and my delegation,” he added.

He also hailed Nepal’s contribution to the UN peacekeeping mission. “Nepal has long been a cherished member of the UN family, and a powerful voice for developing countries, most recently as Chair of the LDC Group. And this small country has made an outsized contribution to international peace,” he said, adding: “Of all the countries on Earth, Nepal is the second largest contributor of troops to United Nations’ missions. I am sincerely grateful to the Nepali people for their dedication, their courage and their service. I would like to take a moment to honor those who have lost their lives serving under our blue flag.”

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