President Paudel highlights Japan as key development partner

KATHMANDU: President Ram Chandra Paudel has underscored the importance of Nepal–Japan relations, calling the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties a milestone in bilateral cooperation.

He emphasized Japan’s role as a trusted and crucial partner in Nepal’s social and economic development.

Speaking during a courtesy meeting with Japanese State Minister for Foreign Affairs Hori Iwao, President Paudel highlighted Japan’s significant contributions through bilateral grants and loans, multilateral assistance, and technical cooperation. “Japan’s support has played a remarkable role in human resource development, health, agriculture, infrastructure, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation. We seek to further benefit from Japan’s expertise, knowledge, skills, and technology in these areas,” he said, according to his press advisor Kiran Pokhrel.

President Paudel expressed confidence that Nepal, transitioning from a least-developed nation toward higher development in 2026, will continue to receive goodwill and support from Japan.

He added that Nepal has already undertaken legal, procedural, and institutional reforms to attract Japanese investment in priority sectors, facilitate trade, and promote innovation.

Highlighting the cultural ties between the two countries, the President noted that the teachings of Gautam Buddha inspire both nations, and Lumbini, Buddha’s birthplace, serves as a strong bridge between the peoples of Nepal and Japan. He expressed gratitude for Japan’s support in Lumbini’s development.

State Minister Hori Iwao lauded President Paudel’s role in safeguarding Nepal’s constitution and democracy, referencing the exhibition held in Nepal on Sept 8–9.

He reaffirmed Japan’s ongoing support for peace, stability, and democratic consolidation, noting that Nepal’s peace and prosperity contribute to regional stability.

The minister also expressed hopes for a successful House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5.

Further, Minister Hori confirmed continued Japanese support for Nepal’s development, including reconstruction of flood-damaged Kathmandu–Sindhuli Road and the construction of an underpass to improve traffic management in Kathmandu–Koteshwor.

President Paudel, accompanied by First Lady Sabita Paudel and a high-level delegation, is currently on a four-day official visit to Japan at the invitation of the Japanese government.

The visit began Sunday night and includes several high-level meetings to strengthen bilateral cooperation.