Kathmandu, Feb 7: Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Arzu Rana Deuba has held telephonic conversation with Abbas Araghchi, the Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran, as a part of Nepal’s diplomatic initiative to secure the release of Nepali youth Bipin Joshi who is believed to be held captive by Hamas.
Minister Dr Deuba held telephonic talks with her Iranian counterpart on Thursday night, urging him to use his good office to help release Joshi from Hamas’ captivity.
On the occasion, Foreign Minister Araghchi gave the assurance that he would raise the issue of Joshi's release with priority in his upcoming meeting with Hamas officials, Foreign Minister Rana's private secretariat said.
Hamas has started releasing people under its captivity after the latest ceasefire deal reached between it and the Israeli government. The government has continued with the diplomatic initiatives for the safe release of Joshi from Hamas' confinement.
In this connection, Foreign Affairs Minister Dr Deuba earlier held telephonic talks with the Egyptian Foreign Minister last week, urging for support for Joshi's release.
Minister Dr Rana has been requesting Qatar and Egypt that have been playing a role of mediators with Hamas for peace talks ever since efforts were made for the ceasefire for taking special initiative for Joshi's release.
Minister Dr Rana also had a telephonic conversation with Israel's Foreign Minister a few weeks ago on this issue. Similarly, Ambassador of Nepal to Israel, Prof Dr Dhana Prasad Pandit, also in telephonic conversation with the Israeli President a few days ago, had urged Israeli political leadership for Joshi's release.
The government has continued the diplomatic initiatives for securing Joshi's release since last year. Minister Dr Rana has been making diplomatic efforts for Joshi's release through the United Nations, international and regional forums and meetings.