Foreign Minister Khanal and Saudi Ambassador Mnikhr discuss 50th anniversary ties, labour welfare, and economic partnership

KATHMANDU, Aug 20: Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Nepal, Fahd bin Mohammed bin Mnikhr, paid a courtesy call on Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Singha Durbar today.

The high-level discussions focused on advancing bilateral relations, organizing reciprocal high-level visits, ensuring worker welfare, and expanding economic cooperation in tourism, civil aviation, and investment.

Fifty Years of Diplomatic Relations

Both dignitaries highlighted the upcoming 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Nepal and Saudi Arabia—established on March 15, 1977—as a historic landmark.

Foreign Minister Khanal noted that high-level exchanges will provide strategic momentum to bilateral cooperation, stating: “The 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Saudi Arabia is a significant milestone. Moving forward, we must sustain high-level visits and dialogue to further expand mutually beneficial collaboration.”

Worker Welfare and Remittance Protections

Foreign Minister Khanal expressed formal appreciation to the Saudi government for its proactive security and protective measures safeguarding Nepali migrant workers and Saudi citizens during recent regional tensions.

He also commended Saudi authorities for their ongoing assistance in facilitating the repatriation of deceased Nepali nationals.

Addressing ongoing labor concerns, Minister Khanal brought attention to reports regarding unpaid wages affecting certain Nepali workers in the Kingdom, urging Saudi officials to ensure prompt oversight and resolution regarding fair compensation.

Expanding Economic and Diplomatic Ties

Reaffirming Nepal’s commitment to transforming friendly ties into a productive economic partnership, Foreign Minister Khanal underscored potential growth sectors including bilateral trade, political consultations, tourism, direct air connectivity, and labor mobility: “Nepal is eager to expand cooperation with Saudi Arabia beyond diplomatic channels into investment, tourism, air connectivity, labor, and broader economic sectors. It is time to transform our friendly relations into a result-oriented partnership.”

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close diplomatic dialogue and elevating Nepal–Saudi ties to new heights.

Deputy Chief of Mission and Head of Consular and Media Affairs AbdulRahman K. Ghoshom was also present during the meeting.