Nepal needs to maintain balanced relations with all countries: FM Rana

KATHMANDU: Newly appointed Foreign Minister Dr Arzu Rana has said that Nepal is committed to the Non-Aligned Movement and the principles of Panchsheel.

Speaking to journalists after assuming office at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, she said that Nepal, being a landlocked country situated between two large neighboring nations, needs to maintain balanced relations with all countries. “Thanks to the contributions of our ancestors, our country’s sovereignty and independence have remained secure throughout history. It is our collective responsibility to preserve this,” she added.

Highlighting the significant role of the foreign ministry in the country’s prosperity, she said her focus would be on contributing to the country through economic diplomacy.

She also said that various international treaties and agreements that Nepal has signed can contribute to advancing economic diplomacy. Stressing the need to do more for Nepalis living abroad, she said the government will work on providing better services to Nepalis living in foreign countries.

Dr. Rana instructed the staff of the ministry to maintain good governance, effectively implement policies, and focus on result-oriented work. She added that the new government would continue efforts to return Nepalis serving in the Russian army and to secure the release of Bipin Joshi, a Nepali youth who has been missing since a Hamas attack in Israel last year.