Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Foreign Minister Azru Rana are attending the 79th UN General Assembly in New York, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing global issues. Oli is engaged in meetings with key international leaders and has highlighted critical issues such as lead poisoning and democracy, while Rana has advocated for ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war and emphasized women’s rights. Their efforts reflect Nepal’s commitment to international cooperation and development.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Foreign Minister Azru Rana are currently participating in the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, engaged in a series of diplomatic meetings aimed at reinforcing Nepal’s bilateral ties with various nations. Prime Minister Oli is scheduled to meet prominent figures including USAID Administrator Samantha Power, President of the European Council Charles Michel, the President of Finland Alexander Stubb, and the Prime Minister of Samoa Fiamē Naomi Mata‘afa. These discussions are anticipated to focus on matters of mutual interest between Nepal and these nations, as indicated by officials from the foreign ministry. On the first day of their engagements, Prime Minister Oli delivered a keynote address at the ‘Lead-Free Future: Partnership Launch and Pledging Event’ organized by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). In his speech, he emphasized the critical issue of lead poisoning, which significantly impacts productivity and child health in developing countries. He advocated for enhanced domestic policies, international collaboration in strengthening national institutions, and fostering partnerships to address this challenge. Furthermore, during his address at the World Leaders’ Forum at Columbia University, Oli reflected on Nepal’s journey toward establishing democracy, proposing a vision of ‘comprehensive democracy’ that champions equal rights and opportunity for all citizens. This vision is part of his broader aspiration of ‘Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali,’ which aims to eradicate poverty and ensure dignity for all citizens. Foreign Minister Rana also addressed significant issues during their visit, including the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Speaking at the ministerial meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), she called for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages, including the Nepali national Bipin Joshi. Additionally, she reiterated Nepal’s support for a two-state solution to guarantee peace between Israel and Palestine. Moreover, Minister Rana engaged in discussions that underscored the necessity of women’s representation in public and private sectors, highlighting Nepal’s achievements in this area. She also spoke at an event concerning reproductive rights, affirming that the right to safe motherhood is enshrined in Nepal’s constitution and emphasizing the importance of addressing women’s reproductive choices as a matter of human rights and social justice.
The current diplomatic engagements of Prime Minister Oli and Foreign Minister Rana at the United Nations General Assembly highlight Nepal’s proactive approach in addressing global issues while emphasizing its sovereign interests. With themes ranging from health hazards due to lead poisoning to the geopolitical tensions surrounding Israel and Palestine, these discussions underline Nepal’s commitment to international cooperation and its aspirations for national development. Furthermore, the focus on women’s rights and representation reflects broader societal goals aimed at integrating gender equality into policy-making, resonating with global initiatives for sustainable development.
In summary, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Foreign Minister Azru Rana’s visit to New York for the United Nations General Assembly encapsulates Nepal’s diplomatic efforts focused on enhancing bilateral relations and addressing pressing global challenges. From advocating for lead-free initiatives to calling for peace in the Israel-Hamas conflict and championing women’s rights, the Nepali delegation has articulated a clear vision for collaboration and progressive policies. Their engagements affirm Nepal’s role on the international stage, aligning national priorities with global developmental goals.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
