Nepal Requests Egypt’s Assistance for Hostage Release and Climate Dialogue Participation
Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has requested Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi’s assistance in securing the release of Bipin Joshi, a hostage held by Hamas since October 7, 2023. The Egyptian president assured prioritization of efforts for Joshi’s release in the ongoing negotiations. Additionally, both leaders discussed Nepal’s Sagarmatha Sambad, an international climate dialogue, to be held in May 2024.
Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli recently engaged in a telephone dialogue with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, where he reiterated the country’s request for assistance in securing the release of Bipin Joshi. Joshi has been held hostage by Hamas militants since October 7, 2023, and the Prime Minister expressed appreciation for Egypt’s mediatory role in the Gaza ceasefire agreement and the hostage negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
The Egyptian president assured Prime Minister Oli that efforts to facilitate the release of all remaining hostages, including Joshi, would be prioritized during the ongoing negotiations. The condition of Joshi remains uncertain; he was taken captive while participating in a “Learn and Earn” agricultural study programme in Israel, abducted from Alumim Kibbutz amidst a broader assault that resulted in numerous hostages.
On a different note, President Al-Sisi acknowledged Nepal’s initiative in organizing the Sagarmatha Sambad, extending his best wishes for its success. The Prime Minister extended an invitation to Al-Sisi to participate in this event, which aims to address climate change and environmental sustainability. Scheduled from May 16 to 18 in Kathmandu, the forum will host 160 to 200 foreign delegates focusing on the theme “Climate Change, Mountains, and the Future of Humanity.”
The Prime Minister underscored the significance of global collaboration in tackling climate issues, expressing confidence that Egypt’s engagement would enhance the discourse. Additionally, the leaders touched upon bilateral relations, multilateral cooperation, and prospects for high-level visits between their nations.
In summary, Nepal is actively seeking Egypt’s support for the release of Bipin Joshi, a hostage held by Hamas since October. Prime Minister Oli has praised Egypt’s mediating efforts in the hostage negotiations and extended an invitation for Egyptian participation in Nepal’s upcoming international climate dialogue, Sagarmatha Sambad. This highlights Nepal’s emphasis on global cooperation in addressing pressing climate challenges and its commitment to enhancing bilateral relations with Egypt.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
