Controversy surrounds President Paudel's visit to France during earthquake crisis

Published On: November 5, 2023 04:45 PM NPT By: Republica | @RepublicaNepal

KATHMANDU, Nov 5: President Ram Chandra Paudel's upcoming foreign visit, scheduled to include France, Germany, and Italy, has faced controversy and concern in light of the recent earthquake that has affected the nation.

President Paudel will visit France, Germany and Italy on November 8 and return home on November 17. A Cabinet meeting held on November 2 has already approved President Paudel's foreign visit.

Concerns have been expressed at various levels stating that it is not appropriate for the state to spend millions of rupees on a foreign tour when the country has just faced a socio-economic loss. President Paudel has already drawn the attention of the government to pay attention to the rescue and relief of the earthquake victims on Saturday.

Stating that he was saddened by the human and material damage caused by the earthquake, he appealed to all concerned including the government to help rescue and relief at this time of calamity. But he has not said anything about his scheduled visit abroad from November 8 to November 17. Even his secretariat has remained tight-lipped on the matter.

Political analysts have said that it is not proper for President Paudel to go on a foreign tour when the entire nation is in a state of calamity. It has been commented on social media that it cannot be considered positive that President Paudel is going on a foreign tour at this time.

Political analyst Hari Rokka said that it would be better if President Paudel did not visit foreign countries in the current situation of disaster. “The country is in a difficult situation, an earthquake has hit the country. In such a time, huge amounts of money is spent on relief, rescue and rehabilitation. In such a case, the country's money will also be spent on President Paudel’s visit. Therefore, when the head of state goes on a foreign visit after the situation becomes a little easier, it will spread a good message. Even if he said that it is a predetermined program, it will become his personal matter,” he said.

Political Science Professor Rishi Ram Sharma said that if the head of state visits a foreign country in such a sad situation, it will not leave a good impression at home and abroad.