FM Rana holds telephone talks with her Israeli counterpart for Bipin Joshi’s release

Kathmandu, Jan 14: Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba held a telephonic conversation with Israeli Minister for Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa’ar on Tuesday evening, requesting him to ensure the safe release of Bipin Joshi, a Nepali citizen believed to be held captive by Hamas.

As the Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues its diplomatic efforts for the safe release of Joshi, this appeal from Minister Rana follows reports that Hamas is releasing 34 captives, including women, children, and the elderly. Dr. Rana has been requesting countries, which are reported to be in contact with Hamas and are mediating for a ceasefire with Israel, to intensify their initiatives for Joshi’s release.

Towards this, Dr. Rana appealed to her Israeli counterpart for their continued initiatives for Joshi’s freedom. During the conversation, Dr. Rana also acknowledged Israel’s effort to advocate for the safe release of all captives. In response, Israeli Minister Sa’ar informed Minister Dr. Rana that the Israeli government was making maximum efforts for the safe release of Joshi.

He also articulated his appreciation for Dr. Rana’s earlier telephonic conversation with Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, regarding Joshi’s release. Minister Sa’ar, during the conversation, commended Dr. Khulaifi’s role as a key mediator in peace talks with Hamas on behalf of the Qatari government.

Earlier this morning, Dr. Rana also held a telephone conversation with Dr. Khulaifi, calling for similar assistance. Dr. Khulaifi reiterated Qatar’s commitment to prioritize Joshi’s release. He also highlighted the Qatari government’s ongoing initiatives for the release of those kidnapped by Hamas.

Lately, Dr. Rana has intensified diplomatic efforts, engaging with ambassadors of Israel, Egypt and Qatar, seeking their governments’ assistance in securing Joshi’s release. Joshi was among those who were kidnapped during the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, which led to the killing of more than a thousand people, including 10 Nepalis. Since then, the Government of Nepal has continued its diplomatic efforts for Joshi’s release.

Dr. Rana has continuously raised the issue at national and regional forums, including the United Nations, and through bilateral meetings for Joshi’s safe release. —RSS