KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Balendra Shah told a gathering of European Union ambassadors and other foreign envoys that his government is committed to delivering tangible improvements to the daily lives of Nepali citizens.
Speaking at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, today Shah said he recognises the urgency of the current moment and the responsibility placed on his administration. “We are meeting today at a historic juncture in Nepal's political journey. The recent election results have delivered a clear and decisive mandate for good governance and inclusive economic prosperity. The mandate we have received carries immense hope for our citizens. Our commitment is clear. We are committed to delivering real, visible improvements to daily life of our citizens,” he said, according to Deepa Dahal, the Prime Minister’s press and research expert.
He emphasised that being new to office does not mean breaking entirely with the past and pledged to protect democratic values while maintaining political stability. “We are fully committed to protecting democratic values and maintaining political stability while ensuring that Nepal's policy direction remains clear, consistent and predictable,” he said.
On foreign policy, the prime minister underlined Nepal’s preference for dialogue and diplomacy amid global conflicts, saying ordinary people suffer most when violence escalates. “Nepal continues to pursue a balanced and pragmatic foreign policy. Our engagement with our neighbours, development partners and friendly countries is guided by the principles of mutual respect, sovereign equality, and shared prosperity. We also hope for an enhanced level of cooperation with the EU member states and all the friendly countries you represent in realising our national aspiration,” he added.
Turning to the economy, Shah outlined priorities aimed at inclusive growth and attracting investment. “We aim to benefit from global markets to create new opportunities for our people. To attract greater investment, we are streamlining procedures, encouraging innovation, and promoting sustainable development,” he said.
He also expressed appreciation for international support for Nepal’s development and invited deeper cooperation across sectors, including trade, investment, green energy, climate action and tourism. “We are eager to deepen our partnership across key sectors, including trade, investment, green energy, climate action and tourism. We deeply value our engagement with each of the friendly countries you represent and look forward to working together in the days ahead. Our Ministry of Foreign Affairs will remain in close contact with all of you. Excellencies, thank you once again for your presence today and for your enduring goodwill towards Nepal. I wish you a memorable stay in Kathmandu and a highly successful tenure,” the prime minister said.
Ambassadors from EU countries based in Kathmandu and New Delhi, along with other envoys in Kathmandu, praised Nepal for conducting peaceful elections and congratulated Shah on forming a government with a mandate for governance and economic development. They said they stand ready to collaborate and promote investment in various sectors to support Nepal’s growth and prosperity.
