KATHMANDU, Aug 20: Saudi Ambassador to Nepal Fahd Mohammad A. Mnikhr paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal on Thursday at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Singha Durbar.
The two sides discussed Nepal-Saudi Arabia bilateral relations, high-level visits, the safety and welfare of Nepali workers in Saudi Arabia, and various issues of mutual interest.
During the meeting, both sides highlighted the significance of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Saudi Arabia and emphasized the need to continue high-level visits and exchanges to further strengthen bilateral ties.
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“The 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Saudi Arabia is an important occasion. In the days ahead, we should continue high-level visits and dialogue and further expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest,” Khanal said.
Khanal thanked Saudi Arabia for the security and protective measures it had taken to ensure the safety of its citizens and Nepali workers in Saudi Arabia during recent regional conflicts.
He also expressed concern over reports that some Nepali workers in Saudi Arabia had not received fair wages and urged the Saudi side to address such issues.
The minister also appreciated the support provided by Saudi authorities in repatriating the bodies of Nepali citizens who have died in Saudi Arabia.
The two sides expressed satisfaction with the existing bilateral relations and reiterated their commitment to strengthening cooperation in areas of mutual interest. They also discussed expanding cooperation in political consultations, investment, tourism, air connectivity, labour mobility and the welfare of Nepali workers in Saudi Arabia.
“Nepal is interested in expanding cooperation with Saudi Arabia not only in political and diplomatic relations but also in investment, tourism, air connectivity, labour and other economic sectors. We need to transform the existing friendly relations between the two countries into a more results-oriented partnership,” Khanal said.
Both sides also expressed their commitment to strengthening communication and dialogue and taking Nepal-Saudi Arabia relations to a new level.
Nepal and Saudi Arabia established diplomatic relations on March 15, 1977. The two countries have maintained friendly relations since then.
