Nepal-Russia Bilateral Consultation Begins

The third meeting of the Nepal-Russia Bilateral Consultation Mechanism is being held in Kathmandu today as the two countries mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai is leading the Nepali delegation, while the Russian delegation is headed by Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko, who is currently visiting Nepal.

The meeting is expected to review the overall state of Nepal-Russia relations and discuss ways to expand cooperation in areas including trade, investment, tourism, education, culture and technical assistance. The two sides will also exchange views on regional and international issues and explore cooperation at multilateral forums. During an ‘Open Dialogue’ hosted by the Russian Embassy in Kathmandu on Tuesday, Deputy Foreign Minister Rudenko expressed condolences over the loss of lives and property caused by recent floods in Nepal.

He also expressed Russia’s readiness to provide assistance within its capacity in dealing with the consequences of the disaster. During the event, Rudenko praised Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s efforts to draw international attention to Nepal’s climate vulnerabilities at the recently concluded 81st UN General Assembly, describing climate change as an “alarm bell” for the world.

He also announced 52 scholarship opportunities for Nepali students to pursue higher education in Russia in the coming academic year. During Rudenko’s visit, Nepal is also expected to raise concerns over Nepali nationals recruited into the Russian Army, including those reported missing or killed, as well as compensation for their families.

It may be noted that Nepal and Russia signed a Protocol on Consultations in 1995 to facilitate regular consultations and exchanges of views on bilateral, regional and international affairs. The first meeting of the mechanism was held at the Foreign Secretary level in Moscow in 2007, followed by the second meeting in Kathmandu on April 17, 2018. (RSS)