VP Yadav and Saudi Ambassador Abu Haimed discuss strengthening bilateral ties

September 22, Kathmandu: Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Nepal, Saad bin Nasser Abu Haimed, paid a courtesy call on Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav at the Vice President’s office in Lanchaur on  Sunday.

The meeting centred on strengthening bilateral relations between Nepal and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Discussions included Nepali migrant workers, infrastructure development, information technology, energy, tourism, mining, and agriculture, according to the Vice President’s Secretariat.

Vice President Yadav highlighted the longstanding cordial relations between the two countries since the establishment of diplomatic ties in March 1977.

He emphasized the importance of exchanging visits at various levels to further strengthen these relations.

He also acknowledged Saudi Arabia as a key destination for Nepali workers and expressed hope for continued support from the Saudi government to protect the rights and interests of the approximately 400,000 Nepali workers in Saudi Arabia.

Vice President Yadav outlined Nepal’s goal to upgrade from the list of least developed countries by 2026 and become a middle-income country by 2030, seeking more investment and support from friendly nations like Saudi Arabia.

He noted the potential for increased economic cooperation, particularly in tourism, given Nepal’s natural beauty, suitable climate, and friendly culture.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to working closely in multilateral and regional forums, including the United Nations and the Non-Aligned Movement.

On the occasion of Saudi Arabia’s 94th National Day, Vice President Yadav sent congratulatory messages to King Salman bin Abdul Aziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, wishing peace and prosperity for the Saudi people.

Ambassador Abu Haimed expressed Saudi Arabia’s willingness to support Nepal in tourism and other fields, acknowledging the significant contribution of Nepali workers to the Saudi economy.