British Prince Edward met with President Poudel to discuss climate change, bilateral ties, and future cooperation between Nepal and the UK. The meeting emphasized climate change’s impact on Nepal and acknowledged the friendship built through royal family visits and the British-Gurkha relationship. Plans for the Sagarmatha Dialogue were shared, focusing on the mountains and humanity’s future.
During a recent visit to Nepal, British Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, paid a courtesy call to President Ramchandra Poudel at Sheetal Niwas. The meeting focused on critical issues such as climate change, bilateral relations, and future collaboration between Nepal and the UK. President Poudel highlighted Nepal’s impact from climate change and emphasized the country’s commitment to preserving the Himalayas on international platforms.
President Poudel also detailed the upcoming “Sagarmatha Dialogue,” set for May 16-18 in Kathmandu, which will focus on climate change, mountains, and their implications for humanity. He expressed gratitude towards the British royal family’s ongoing visits, underscoring how they have nurtured friendly relations. Recall was made to earlier royal visits from Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip in 1960 and 1986, respectively.
Prince Edward expressed interest in understanding the adverse effects of climate change in Nepal and the country’s efforts to combat these challenges. He acknowledged the significance of empowering youth and women as part of the UK-Nepal cooperation moving forward and appreciated Nepal’s warm welcome. Additionally, he cited the long-standing relationship between the British Army and the country, emphasizing the importance of the British-Gurkha connection.
Major-General Gerald Strickland, head of the British Gurkha Brigade, joined the discussions and presented the brigade’s 2024 annual report, which President Poudel acknowledged gratefully. They also addressed issues regarding former British Gurkhas and discussed establishing a bilateral mechanism to resolve their grievances effectively.
Overall, the meeting underscored the enduring ties between Nepal and the United Kingdom, centered on key mutual interests such as climate action and military cooperation. The discussions set a positive tone for future collaborative efforts addressing pressing issues affecting both nations.
The meeting between British Prince Edward and President Ramchandra Poudel highlights the long-standing relationships between Nepal and the United Kingdom. Climate change is a critical global challenge, significantly impacting vulnerable regions like Nepal, which relies on the Himalayas. The diplomatic engagement between the two parties illustrates a commitment to strengthen bilateral ties through collaboration and support on various issues, including youth and women empowerment, military relations, and climate action.
The discussions between Prince Edward and President Poudel reveal a shared commitment to tackling climate change and reinforcing bilateral cooperation. The proposed Sagarmatha Dialogue signifies a progressive step toward addressing environmental challenges while emphasizing Nepal’s historical ties with the UK through military connections. This meeting is a vital precursor to future collaborations and initiatives aimed at improving both nations’ socio-economic frameworks.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
