KATHMANDU, May 19: In a major event that signaled Nepal’s growing diplomatic ambition, the Ambassadors’ Club and the International Relations and Global Diplomacy Dialogue (IRGDD) were officially inaugurated in Kathmandu on Sunday. The event also marked the launch of The Diplomat Nepal— a diplomatic magazine and media platform.
Addressing the function, Former Prime Minister Dr. Baburam Bhattarai, the chief guest, hailed the threefold launch as a “crucial moment in Nepal’s evolving global role,” emphasizing that the rapidly changing global order demands proactive engagement. “Nepal must no longer remain on the sidelines,” he said. “This initiative is a timely and necessary response when the world needs more dialogue, peace, and principled action.”
Dr. Bhattarai highlighted how platforms like IRGDD, the Ambassadors' Club, and The Diplomat Nepal create a much-needed “soft space” for fostering trust and influencing foreign policy with vision and inclusivity. He noted their relevance in addressing labor rights, climate change, and youth and gender empowerment—not just reacting to global shifts but actively helping shape Nepal’s future.
Shivangini’s ‘Bold and Beautiful’ on display
Dr. Sarmila Parajuli Dhakal, President of both IRGDD and the Ambassadors’ Club, declared the launch the beginning of a journey placing Nepal at the heart of global conversations. “Nepal carries the voice of hope, of clarity, and of courage,” she said. “Small nations must rise—not in conflict, but in conviction. We must help shape global change, not just react to it.”
Former Foreign Minister Ramesh Nath Pandey echoed the call for strategic diplomatic engagement. “Nepal’s most important task today is to redefine its global presence through conviction and principle. The IRGDD is the platform where Nepal speaks—not waits to be spoken for,” he said.
Former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sujata Koirala called the initiatives “timely and transformative,” essential for navigating global crises and amplifying Nepal’s voice in international diplomacy. She cited Nepal’s long-standing legacy in UN peacekeeping and principled foreign policy as a foundation for offering moral leadership on the world stage.
Acting President of Rastriya Swatantra Party DP Aryal emphasized the importance of adapting diplomacy to emerging global challenges like climate change, AI and migration. “These initiatives promote new thinking to replace outdated practices,” he stated.
Egypt’s Ambassador to Nepal and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Noha Hamdy Ahmed, delivered a vote of thanks on behalf of the organizers. She praised Nepal’s diplomatic tradition of warmth, professionalism and hospitality. “The IRGDD Ambassadors’ Club offers a vital platform for strengthening cooperation, dialogue and diplomacy in both bilateral and multilateral contexts,” she said.
UN Resident Coordinator to Nepal, Hana Singer Hamdy, called the triple launch a celebration of resilience and creativity. She highlighted The Diplomat Nepal magazine as a bold vision for amplifying voices from the Global South. “This issue dives into the heart of global diplomacy, focusing on climate change and diaspora engagement,” she said, referencing the energy of Sagarmatha Sambaad.
The magazine was jointly unveiled by an impressive group of dignitaries, including Dr. Bhattarai; Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak; Minister for Forest and Environment Ain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri; Minister for Labor, Employment and Social Security Sarad Singh Bhandari; Minister for Youth and Sports Teju Lal Chaudhary; former ministers Koirala and Pandey; RSP Acting Chair Aryal; publisher Bimal Dhakal; Ambassador Ahmed; and UN Coordinator Hamdy. The event concluded with a ceremonial cake-cutting, symbolizing unity and the shared vision of a globally engaged Nepal.
