KATHMANDU, Feb 7: Speaker Devraj Ghimire has expressed concern over Nepali student Bipin Joshi, who has been held captive by Hamas since October 7, 2023.
On Friday, Ghimire wrote to Saudi Arabia Parliament Speaker Mohammad Ahmed Al-Yamahi, requesting special intervention for Joshi’s safe release.
"Considering the cordial relations between Nepal and the Arab League, I urge you to take initiative and support the early release of Nepali student Bipin Joshi," the letter stated.
Speaker Ghimire holds meeting with his Cambodian counterpart
Ghimire recalled Nepal’s strong ties with the Arab League and expressed confidence in its support for Joshi’s safe return. He also reminded that Nepal has welcomed the recent ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement between Israel and Hamas.
Joshi was taken captive during Hamas’s October 7 attack. The government has been making diplomatic efforts for his release. Last Sunday, Israeli Ambassador to Nepal Shmulik Aari Bass, in a meeting with Ghimire, suggested that parliamentary diplomacy could aid Joshi’s rescue.
In his letter, Ghimire reiterated Nepal’s active participation in regional and sub-regional organizations like SAARC and BIMSTEC and stressed the need for stronger cooperation with the Arab League.
With the Speaker’s appeal, further diplomatic initiatives are expected for Joshi’s safe return.
