Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Holds Fruitful Bilateral Talks with Japanese Counterpart in Tokyo

Nepal’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, held a significant bilateral meeting with Japanese Foreign Minister His Excellency Yoko Kamikawa on Thursday at Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tokyo. Minister Rana described the discussion as “fruitful,” focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation between the two nations.

During the meeting, Minister Rana expressed sincere gratitude to the Japanese government for its meaningful participation in the Sagarmatha Dialogue, a platform initiated by Nepal for high-level discourse on climate change and sustainable development. She acknowledged Japan’s continued support in Nepal’s international engagements and highlighted the importance of Japan’s contributions to regional and global cooperation.

Call for Direct Flights Between Japan and Nepal

A key agenda in the dialogue was the possibility of establishing direct flights between Japan and Nepal. Minister Rana requested her Japanese counterpart to consider enabling Japan Airlines to initiate regular flights to Nepal. According to Rana, Minister Kamikawa responded positively, assuring that Japan would work towards facilitating this request in a constructive manner.

Celebrating 70 Years of Nepal-Japan Ties

Rana emphasized the longstanding and robust partnership between Nepal and Japan, which is approaching its 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations. She expressed hopes for further enhancing bilateral cooperation, especially in areas of mutual benefit, and exploring new possibilities for collaboration in the years ahead.

“Nepal and Japan have shared a strong and enduring partnership. As we approach the 70th anniversary of our diplomatic ties, I look forward to strengthening this cooperation through new avenues of mutual benefit,” she said.

Participation in International Conference on Elderly Welfare

Minister Rana is currently in Japan to attend an international conference focused on social isolation among senior citizens, organized by the Foundation for the Welfare and Education of the Asian People (FWEAP). The conference features participants from over 12 countries, including ministers, senior government officials, and prominent social activists from across Asia.

As a special guest speaker, Dr. Rana shared insights on Nepal’s efforts in elderly welfare, highlighting her longstanding involvement in social protection and women’s empowerment through organizations such as the Rural Women’s Development and Unity Center (RUWDUC) and the Safe Motherhood Network Federation.

Other Engagements and Return Schedule

While in Japan, Minister Rana is also scheduled to hold other important bilateral meetings to further promote Nepal’s diplomatic agenda. She is expected to return to Nepal on Saturday.