Vice President Yadav and Ambassador Thompson discuss development and diplomacy

June 23, Kathmandu: Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav held a courtesy meeting with Dean R. Thompson, the US Ambassador to Nepal, on Monday at the Vice President’s Office in Lainchaur.

During the meeting, discussions were held on various aspects of Nepal-US relations, bilateral cooperation, diplomatic partnerships, and future possibilities. Vice President Yadav noted that since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1947, the two nations have maintained cordial and mutually respectful relations.

He stated, “Democracy, human rights, and freedom are our shared values, which have further strengthened our relationship.” Expressing gratitude for the development assistance provided by the US government to Nepal since 1951, Vice President Yadav highlighted the US’s commendable contributions to Nepal’s economic and social development and the strengthening of democracy.

According to the Secretariat of the Vice President, he expressed confidence that the recently established Nepali Consulate General in San Francisco and Dallas would provide consular services to the Nepali diaspora. He also emphasised Nepal’s commitment to enhancing cooperation in trade, technology, and investment. In the context of Nepal’s upcoming graduation from Least Developed Country status by 2026, Vice President Yadav emphasised the need for active and long-term collaboration with development partners, such as the US, to achieve this milestone.

The Vice President expressed optimism about the resumption of infrastructure projects under the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and programs supported by USAID. Highlighting Nepal’s stance on global issues, Vice President Yadav stated that through international platforms like the Sagarmatha Sambaad, Nepal aims to collaborate with the global community on critical issues such as climate change. He added that the Nepal-US partnership serves as an exemplary model of cooperation focused on human welfare.

US Ambassador Dean R. Thompson affirmed that development projects, including MCC and USAID initiatives, are progressing positively. He noted the vibrant and active role of the Nepali community in the US and expressed confidence that Nepal and the US could achieve significant milestones through mutual collaboration.