Saudi Arabia celebrates 96th National Day in Kathmandu, reiterates support for Nepal

KATHMANDU, Sept. 23: The Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Nepal hosted a diplomatic reception in Kathmandu on Wednesday to mark the 96th National Day of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Khadak Raj Paudel (Ganesh) attending as the chief guest.

Addressing ministers, diplomats, and senior government officials gathered at the event, Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Nepal, Fahd Mohammad A. Mnikhr, expressed the solidarity of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with Nepal and its people following the recent devastating floods.

He extended his deep condolences to the affected families and offered prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured and the safe return of those missing.

Speaking under the official national slogan, “Our pride is in our nature,” the Ambassador outlined Saudi Arabia’s national journey, unity, and development under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud.

Ambassador Mnikhr emphasized the great importance the Kingdom places on developing bilateral relations with Nepal across all fields as both nations prepare to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2027.

He highlighted key milestones achieved throughout 2026, including the signing of the General Labour Agreement in January and the execution of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement on Aug. 31, noting that these agreements will expand direct air connectivity, promote trade, investment, and tourism, and facilitate the movement of businesspeople between the two countries.