Nepal, US Discuss Digital Cooperation and Investment

Visiting U.S. Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs Sarah B. Rogers on Monday highlighted the growing importance of public awareness, technological freedom, and international cooperation in countering digital misinformation, as she wrapped up a series of high-level engagements in Kathmandu aimed at deepening Nepal-U.S. ties.

Speaking to journalists at an interaction program in Kathmandu, Rogers emphasized that empowering citizens to critically assess information is essential in an era increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, deepfakes, and rapidly evolving digital platforms.

She said trusted AI tools and deepfake detection technologies could help societies defend against misinformation while preserving democratic freedoms and open internet principles.

“The answer to misinformation is not less freedom, but more public empowerment, better tools, and stronger digital literacy,” Rogers said during the interaction.

Her visit comes at a time when Nepal is intensifying discussions on digital regulation, cyber security, and the future of social media governance, while simultaneously seeking greater foreign investment in technology and telecommunications infrastructure.

During her Kathmandu visit, Rogers held meetings with Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal and Communications and Information Technology Minister Dr. Bikram Timilsina, where discussions focused on expanding cooperation in digital infrastructure, cyber security, trade, tourism, and investment.

According to Nepal’s Ministry of Communication, Rogers conveyed Washington’s interest in strengthening collaboration in information technology and telecommunications, noting that several American companies are exploring opportunities to expand investments in Nepal.

She also stressed the need for policy stability and an investment-friendly environment to encourage greater private-sector engagement.

The meetings further explored cooperation in addressing online fraud, cyber threats, and harmful digital content while maintaining internet freedom and democratic values.

Minister Timilsina, in response, reiterated Nepal’s commitment to building a responsible digital ecosystem without imposing unnecessary restrictions on social media platforms.

He said Nepal welcomes bilateral and multilateral cooperation to accelerate digital transformation and attract foreign direct investment.

Rogers also met Foreign Minister Khanal, where both sides discussed enhancing decades-long Nepal-U.S. relations through expanded collaboration in investment, trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.

Her visit additionally carried symbolic and cultural significance.

Rogers participated in the Ascent Summit 2026, where she highlighted adventure tourism, innovation, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration in promoting safer Himalayan expeditions and sustainable tourism.

She praised the deep people-to-people ties between Nepal and the United States, particularly through mountaineering, education, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange.

As part of her Kathmandu engagements, Rogers also visited Patan Durbar Square, where she observed ongoing U.S.-supported heritage restoration efforts.

She commended the mobilization of traditional Nepali artisans in preserving historic architecture and cultural identity.

The restoration support reflects a broader American engagement in Nepal beyond politics and diplomacy, extending into cultural preservation, education, disaster recovery, and heritage conservation.

Rogers underscored the significance of the $550 million Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact, describing it as a transformational investment in Nepal’s energy sector and regional connectivity.

She said the project demonstrates Washington’s long-term commitment to Nepal’s economic growth and infrastructure modernization.

Her Nepal trip is also being viewed diplomatically as part of a broader intensification of high-level U.S. engagement with Kathmandu in recent months.

Rogers is among the third senior American official to visit Nepal within a relatively short span, reflecting Washington’s growing strategic and economic interest in Nepal amid evolving regional geopolitical dynamics and expanding Indo-Pacific engagement.

As Nepal and the United States prepare to mark 80 years of diplomatic relations next year, Rogers reaffirmed that the United States remains committed to supporting Nepal’s sovereignty, innovation, economic progress, and democratic resilience.

“Adventure, entrepreneurship, innovation, and strong people-to-people connections continue to define and strengthen the Nepal-U.S. partnership,” she said.