Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Nepal and Oman held the second meeting of the Nepal–Oman Bilateral Consultation Mechanism in Kathmandu on Thursday.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the two sides reaffirmed their commitments to further strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across areas of mutual interest.
The meeting reviewed the full spectrum of Nepal–Oman relations and provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on key bilateral, regional and international matters.
“Both sides acknowledged the longstanding bonds of friendship between the two countries and underscored the importance of enhancing cooperation and collaboration for mutual benefit,” the ministry added in a statement.
During the meeting, the Nepali side briefed the Omani delegation on the recent devastating floods in the Bhote Koshi River and appreciated the urgent humanitarian support from friendly partners, and expressed hope for continued support for recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts.
Discussions also focused on the proposed establishment of an Embassy of Oman in Kathmandu and the establishment of a Nepal-Oman Friendship Association.
The two sides also held discussions on preparations for the joint commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2027.
The meeting explored opportunities to expand bilateral trade and investment, particularly in hydropower, agriculture and other priority sectors. Cooperation on labour migration featured prominently in the discussions, with both sides emphasising the importance of ensuring safe, orderly and mutually beneficial labour mobility. The meeting underscored the need to safeguard the welfare, rights and interests of Nepali workers in Oman and stressed the importance of expediting the conclusion of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Labour and Manpower Exchange.
Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai led the Nepali delegation, while the Omani delegation was led by Sheikh Khalifa Al Harthy, Undersecretary for Political Affairs at the Foreign Ministry of Oman.
The first meeting of the mechanism was held in Muscat in August 2024.
