Addressing the 66th anniversary of Nepal Council of World Affairs in the capital city on Sunday, Chairman Regmi said these principles, enshrined in the UN Charter more than six decades ago, represent the highest ideals of contemporary international relations. [break]
In fact, they provide the basis for a smooth and harmonious conduct of international relations among States which are sovereign, independent and interconnected. As we march ahead towards increasing interdependence through globalization, these well-established principles and norms of interstate relations assume even greater relevance for us, he added.
Similarly, Chairman Regmi said the Interim Constitution of Nepal, 2007 has incorporated the provision that the State shall pursue the foreign policy of Nepal based on the principles of Charter of United Nations, non-alignment, the principles of Panchasheel, international law and the norms of world peace. This is a very good illustration of Nepalese stance in foreign policy.
Another important aspect of Nepalese foreign policy, he said, is that Nepali emphasizes on promoting cooperative relationships with neighboring and all other countries of the world on the basis of equality, mutual respect, friendship and understanding. On the bilateral level, our diplomatic relations are being gradually expanded and deepened.
According to him, Nepal has established formal diplomatic relations with as many as 138 countries around the globe.
Moreover, the Chairman said it is one of the features that Nepal nurtures friendship with all and has established and sustained excellent relations with most of the countries of the world.
"Our outreach with the countries in Asia, Africa, Europe and Latin America has been strengthened through our engagements at the multilateral forums such as the United Nations, Non-alignment movement, Group of 77 and other forums of international or regional nature. We continue to work together with these countries in such multilateral forums on matters of shared interests," added Chairman Regmi.
He also stressed that a democratic country like ours need a consensus-based foreign policy in order to cater to the needs and aspirations of its own people on the one hand and to meet the obligations arising out of being a responsible member of the international community on the other.
"We believe that regional cooperation would be instrumental in promoting regional fraternity, mutual trust and cooperation among the countries of the world," he said.
Chairman Regmi further said the Non Resident Nepalis (NRN) was another important dimension of Nepal´s interactions, which could play a significant role in the economic development of Nepal.
Peace is the cherished goal in present world, he said, adding, Nepal advocates general and complete disarmament, realizing it as the only sound basis for sustainable peace in the world.
"We condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations anywhere in the world," he underscored.
On the occasion, he strongly urged the international community to heed the problem of climate change.
Similarly, Minister of Foreign Affairs Madhav Prasad Ghimire said Nepal has been a nation-state since 1768, which places it on 21st position in the world history of modern states formation. That is why national sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity are so close to our hearts.
"Our country has a long history and experience of implementing an independent foreign policy to safeguard the vital national interests. The core values of our foreign policy have been very eloquently expressed in the interim Constitution of Nepal," he added.
Similarly, the Foreign Minister said Nepal has to work hard to take full advantage from the phenomenal economic growths both of India and China have achieved over the decades. There is a need to address each others´ mutual concerns, taking both countries in confidence through constructive engagements and creating an environment where enhanced cooperation leads to the development of economic and social infrastructure, increased investment and trade for mutual benefits, he added.
According to him, tapping regional complementarities of social, political, geographic and economic proximities and achieving the synergy of cooperation through mechanisms such as SAARC and BIMSTEC are also in Nepal´s immediate concerns.
He shared that Nepal was opening new diplomatic missions in the territories of friendly countries as far as resources allow, and are strengthening the institutional capacity of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the missions abroad.
Related story
PM’s India Visit: Prioritize resolution of border disputes
