EU delegation meets PM Oli to discuss Nepal-EU cooperation, nvestment

KATHMANDU: Delegates from the European Union today paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.

This marks the first time such a large EU delegation, including Veronique Lorenzo, the EU Ambassador to Nepal, has visited Kathmandu. The delegates arrived to participate in the three-day inaugural edition of Sagarmatha Sambaad, held in Kathmandu from May 16 to 18.

During the meeting, discussions focused on Nepal-EU diplomatic relations spanning 51 years and the significance of EU cooperation in Nepal’s stability, economic development and good governance.

Prime Minister Oli informed the delegates that Nepal has made progress in economic development and good governance following its transition from armed conflict, a peaceful people's movement, peace negotiations, and the promulgation of the constitution by the Constituent Assembly.

He stated that Nepal’s two major political parties—the CPN (UML) and the Nepali Congress (NC)—formed the incumbent coalition government with a commitment to advancing economic growth and governance. He urged the EU delegation to invest in Nepal to support its prosperity and job creation.

Reaffirming Nepal’s commitment to the federal democratic republic system, he stated, "Stability and prosperity is Nepal’s onward destination."

The Prime Minister emphasised Nepal’s foreign policy, stating, "Friendship with all, animosity with none," while highlighting its close ties with India and China and its commitment to maintaining amicable relations with all nations.

He expressed gratitude to the EU delegation for attending Sagarmatha Sambaad and engaging with its theme and objectives.

The event was held under the theme: "Climate Change, Mountains and the Future of Humanity."

During the meeting, the Prime Minister announced that there would be no further delay in addressing transitional justice issues, as the necessary legislation has been enacted and two commissions have been established in consultation with stakeholders.

The EU ambassadors reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Nepal in sectors such as education, infrastructure, health, energy, information technology and climate change while collaborating on socio-economic development.

Also present at the event were Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister, Bishnu Prasad Rimal, and senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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