Prince Edward and President Poudel Discuss Climate Change and Bilateral Relations in Nepal
British Prince Edward met with President Ramchandra Poudel at Sheetal Niwas, discussing climate change, bilateral cooperation, and future collaborations. The President announced an upcoming environmental dialogue and expressed appreciation for royal visits that have strengthened UK-Nepal ties. The discussions also included support for former British Gurkhas, emphasizing ongoing diplomatic relations.
British Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, visited President Ramchandra Poudel at Sheetal Niwas on Tuesday during his ongoing trip to Nepal. Their discussions primarily focused on reinforcing bilateral cooperation, addressing climate change, and exploring future collaborative opportunities between Nepal and the United Kingdom.
President Poudel highlighted the significance of climate change as a pressing global issue, particularly for Nepal, which is directly impacted. He emphasized Nepal’s proactive stance on environmental preservation, especially regarding the Himalayas, at international forums.
During the meeting, Poudel also introduced the upcoming “Sagarmatha Dialogue,” scheduled from May 16 to 18 in Kathmandu, with a theme centered on “climate change, the mountains, and the future of humanity.” He expressed gratitude for the British royal family’s visits, which have strengthened ties between Nepal and the UK.
Prince Edward, who arrived in Nepal from India with his wife, Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, expressed his eagerness to learn more about climate change’s effects on Nepal and the government’s initiatives to address them. He also underscored the importance of empowering youth and women in their future collaborative efforts.
The Duke of Edinburgh acknowledged the longstanding relationship between the British Army and Nepal, notably through the British Gurkhas, which he deemed critical for fostering people-to-people connections. The meeting was attended by Major-General Gerald Strickland, who shared the 2024 annual report of the British Gurkhas with President Poudel.
Their discussions included addressing grievances of former British Gurkhas and the establishment of a bilateral mechanism to resolve these concerns. Overall, the meeting reinforced the longstanding partnership between Nepal and the UK, underscoring their shared commitment to tackling climate change and supporting mutual development initiatives.
The recent meeting between British Prince Edward and President Ramchandra Poudel at Sheetal Niwas signifies a strengthening of diplomatic relations between Nepal and the United Kingdom. Topics of discussion included the pressing issue of climate change and its impact on Nepal, along with mutual support, especially in terms of past royal engagements that have historically enriched their bilateral ties. Prince Edward’s visit follows a significant tradition of British royal interest in Nepal, reflecting not only cultural ties but also the strategic cooperation in areas such as military support and development initiatives. The upcoming “Sagarmatha Dialogue” is envisioned as a platform for deeper engagement on environmental issues, with global implications. The discussions also touch on local concerns regarding former British Gurkhas, underlining a commitment to acknowledging their contributions while addressing their grievances within a diplomatic framework.
The courtesy call between British Prince Edward and President Ramchandra Poudel demonstrated a mutual commitment to enhancing UK-Nepal relations. Key discussions revolved around climate change, the importance of empowering local communities, and addressing the grievances of former British Gurkhas. The anticipated “Sagarmatha Dialogue” further underlines the collaboration on pressing environmental issues. The ongoing royal engagement signifies a robust framework for future cooperation between the two nations.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
