Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal: Government Committed to Expanding Development and Investment Through International Relations
May 27, Kathmandu – Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal stated that the government is committed to effectively utilizing Nepal’s international relations for national development, economic prosperity, and the promotion of national interests. Speaking at a program organized this morning by the Rastriya Swatantra Party (Raswapa) in Tokha Municipality–9, he emphasized that Nepal’s international relations are based on diplomatic, economic, cultural, and strategic ties with various countries and international organizations around the world.
Minister Khanal explained that Nepal has adopted an independent, non-aligned, and balanced foreign policy, conducted in accordance with the Constitution of Nepal, the Charter of the United Nations, the principles of Panchsheel, and the values of the Non-Aligned Movement. He highlighted that Nepal’s international relations are grounded in balanced, friendly, and multilateral cooperation, with the main objectives of safeguarding national interests, promoting economic development, maintaining peace, and strengthening international collaboration.
“I am committed to ending delays within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and providing timely services to citizens. We have streamlined the passport issuance process significantly. Whereas passports used to take weeks, now they can be delivered within two to three days after application, and in some cases, even the next day,” Minister Khanal noted. He also shared information about the launch of the ‘MoFA Mitra’ mobile app to address problems faced by Nepalese abroad.
He pointed out that Nepalese stranded or facing difficulties abroad can now register complaints directly through this app, with ministerial-level monitoring of the process. Referring to the government’s ‘100-point Commitment Letter’ issued after the elections, he stated that investigations into the assets of individuals holding significant public positions since 2006 are underway, along with the reopening of old corruption cases.
The minister added that the number of ministries has been reduced to control unnecessary expenditure. Expressing concern over the declining groundwater levels in the Gongabu area, he said coordination is ongoing with local levels for water management in the Shivapuri watershed region. With a memorandum signed with China for the expansion of the Ring Road, construction is now set to accelerate. Additionally, coordination with the traffic police to remove disorganized parking issues in the Gongabu area will begin immediately.
Ram Bhakta Ghimire, Ward Chairperson of Tokha Municipality–9, stated that he is dedicated to working alongside the federal government to resolve issues emerging in the Gongabu–Tokha area.