IFA launches diplomatic language program to enhance skills of foreign service officers

August 4, Kathmandu: The Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA) launched a diplomatic language training program for Nepal Foreign Service officers to enhance their linguistic skills, public diplomacy, and international engagement capabilities.

The program was inaugurated by Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal during an orientation session at the Sagarmatha Hall in Tripureshwor. Highlighting dialogue as the core foundation of diplomacy, Minister Khanal emphasized that learning foreign languages expands worldviews, facilitates direct idea exchange, and plays a vital role in communicating Nepal’s narrative globally.

IFA Executive Director Rojina Tamrakar noted that language proficiency strengthens cultural understanding, builds diplomatic trust, and projects Nepal’s soft power abroad.

The Chinese language training will be conducted in partnership with the Confucius Institute at Tribhuvan University, while French language instruction will be supported by Alliance Française de Katmandou. Training in Arabic is set to begin within two weeks.

Attending the launch, Chinese Ambassador Zhang Maoming highlighted the diplomatic value of the initiative, stating that language bridges hearts and brings nations closer. He added that the Confucius Institute’s support will empower young Nepali diplomats with stronger language proficiency and deeper insight into China.