Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: The governments of Nepal and Japan on Tuesday exchanged congratulatory messages on the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
In his message to Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs Motegi Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal extended warm greetings and felicitations to the government and friendly people of Japan. Highlighting the longstanding relationship between Nepal and Japan, rooted in history and culture, Minister Khanal said that the two countries have cultivated a time-tested friendship grounded in mutual trust, goodwill, understanding and cooperation.
Appreciating the valuable support received from Japan in Nepal’s development endeavors, Khanal said that substantial engagements at different levels between the two sides in the areas of trade, investment, energy, infrastructure, tourism, education and culture have been growing steadily. He also expressed confidence that the enduring multifaceted partnership will be further consolidated and enhanced in the years ahead.
Similarly, Minister Toshimitsu expressed his happiness at celebrating the auspicious occasion marking the 70th anniversary of the establishment of Japan-Nepal diplomatic relations. He mentioned that since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1956, the two countries have deepened cooperation across a wide range of areas, including economy, culture, education and people-to-people exchanges, and forged an amicable relationship. Referring to the opening of the Nagdhunga Tunnel, constructed through Japanese loan assistance, Minister Toshimitsu said that it would contribute to improving people’s lives and stimulating economic activities in Nepal.
Recalling the official visit of President Ramchandra Paudel to Japan in February this year to commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations, he mentioned that the meeting there between the President of Nepal and Prime Minister of Japan Takaichi Sanae reaffirmed to work together toward further enhancement of bilateral relations.
