Pakistan is committed to bolstering cooperation and understanding with Nepal, stated Abrar H Hashmi, the Ambassador of Pakistan to Nepal, during a reception celebrating the 78th Independence Day of Pakistan. The event, held on Wednesday evening, featured Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav as the chief guest.
Ambassador Hashmi emphasized Pakistan’s dedication to continuing its support for Nepal, particularly in education, defense, banking, health, and other technical sectors. He highlighted the positive outcomes of this collaboration, noting that over 7,000 Pakistani alumni, including doctors, engineers, journalists, bankers, pilots, and defense personnel, are contributing to Nepal’s progress in their respective fields.
Addressing the shared vulnerabilities of Pakistan and Nepal to climate change, Ambassador Hashmi underscored the importance of addressing these challenges for the welfare of both nations. “We share the ecologically fragile Himalayas, where glaciers are melting at an accelerated pace, leading to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods and, in the medium to long term, potential water and food shortages,” he said.
He further stressed that Pakistan is committed to establishing peaceful and cordial relations with all countries, contributing to global peace through diplomatic efforts and UN peacekeeping missions. “Nepal is a close friend of Pakistan. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1960, mutual respect, trust, cordiality, and understanding have remained the hallmark of our relationship,” he added.
Ambassador Hashmi also highlighted the unique cultural and geographical ties between Pakistan and Nepal, from the peaks of Everest to K2, and the rich Gandhara heritage. “As partners, we work together at regional and multilateral forums, especially at the UN and SAARC,” he said.
The ambassador noted that Pakistan’s partnership with Nepal is underpinned by a desire for mutual benefit, with both countries having signed several agreements in areas such as trade, air services, culture, tourism, and agriculture. He emphasized that a number of bilateral mechanisms exist to further strengthen these ties.
The reception was attended by several dignitaries, including Deputy Speaker Indira Rana, former Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, former ministers, parliamentarians, diplomatic mission chiefs in Kathmandu, high-ranking government officials, entrepreneurs, journalists, and other distinguished guests.
A documentary showcasing Pakistan’s progress in socio-economic, technological, and defense sectors was also screened at the event.
