Kathmandu, Feb. 3
President Ramchandra Paudel has met with Emperor Naruhito of Japan
at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, highlighting the deep-rooted friendship and
developmental partnership between the two nations.
The meeting, held as part of a four-day official visit, serves as a
cornerstone for celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of the establishment
of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Japan. Accompanying the President on
this historic trip is the First Lady, Sabita Paudel, along with a high-level
Nepali delegation.
During their dialogue, President Paudel expressed profound
gratitude for Japan’s consistent role as a reliable partner in Nepal’s
socio-economic evolution. He noted that Japanese assistance has been
instrumental across various sectors, including infrastructure, health,
agriculture, and environmental conservation, directly benefiting the lives of
the Nepali people.
The President further highlighted the spiritual ties connecting the
two countries, citing the birthplace of Lord Buddha in Lumbini as a symbolic
bridge that continues to foster harmony and mutual understanding.
The meeting also served as a moment of reflection on personal and
historical milestones. President Paudel recalled Emperor Naruhito’s visit to
Nepal in 1987 as a Prince, noting how the Emperor's experiences in regions like
Pokhara and Lumbini have left a lasting impression.
For his part, Emperor Naruhito shared a poignant memory of
observing women carrying water jars in Sarangkot, an experience he credited
with sparking his academic interest in global water issues.
The Emperor reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting Nepal,
particularly in the realm of disaster management and humanitarian aid.
The visit comes at a time of high-level diplomatic activity, as
President Paudel is also scheduled to hold talks with the Japanese Prime
Minister, Sanae Takaichi. Earlier in the week, the President engaged with the
Japanese business community, encouraging further investment in Nepal’s
burgeoning sectors such as hydropower and information technology.
As the 70th-anniversary celebrations continue, this state visit
underscores a shared vision for a future defined by closer cooperation and
enduring friendship between the two Asian nations.
Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 4 February 2026.
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