Nepal’s Foreign Minister Deuba urged Ukraine to release seven Nepali nationals held as POWs during a meeting with Ukrainian FM Sibiga in New Delhi. Deuba emphasized Nepal’s stance against its citizens enlisting in the Russian military. Ukraine assured legal steps for their release and discussed support for Nepal’s UN Human Rights Council candidacy. They also signed an agreement for visa-free travel for diplomats.

Nepal’s Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba met with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sibiga in New Delhi during the Raisina Dialogue. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the situation of seven Nepali nationals who are currently held as prisoners of war in Ukraine. Deuba emphasized that Nepal prohibits its citizens from joining the Russian military, advocating for the swift release of these individuals, as stated by the foreign minister’s secretariat.

The seven youths were reportedly deceived into enlisting in the Russian forces but were subsequently captured by Ukrainian troops. Sibiga assured Deuba that Ukraine would adhere to legal protocols for their release. Furthermore, Deuba requested Ukraine’s support for Nepal’s candidacy for the UN Human Rights Council for the 2027–2029 term.

In another notable development, Nepal and Ukraine formalized an agreement enabling visa-free travel for holders of diplomatic and official passports, enhancing diplomatic relations between the two countries. This agreement underscores the commitment to strengthening cooperation on various fronts including human rights.

In summary, Nepal’s Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba urged Ukraine to expedite the release of seven Nepali prisoners of war during a bilateral meeting. With assurance from Ukraine regarding legal processes for their release, discussions also included support for Nepal’s UN Human Rights Council candidacy. Additionally, a new agreement allowing visa-free travel for diplomats was signed to strengthen Nepal-Ukraine relations.

Original Source: kathmandupost.com