Nepal keen to strengthen relations with friendly nations: PM Shah

Kathmandu, Apr. 8

Prime Minister Balendra Shah has said that his government is keen to further strengthen Nepal’s relations with the friendly nations represented by ambassadors and heads of diplomatic missions based in the country.

Speaking at a collective courtesy meeting held at the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on Wednesday, he said that the government accords high importance to its relations with all countries, places trust in them, and remains committed to strengthening partnerships based on mutual benefit.

“Nepal has been pursuing a balanced and pragmatic foreign policy. Our external relations are guided by the goal of shared prosperity,” a PMO statement said. “We express our sincere gratitude to all partners and friends for their continued goodwill and support towards Nepal’s development and prosperity.”

Prime Minister Shah stressed that ongoing conflicts around the world have the greatest impact on ordinary citizens and that peace should be a shared priority.

“As ongoing conflicts affect ordinary people the most, peace must remain our common priority. I believe we all agree on this and expect collective efforts in this direction,” he said, thanking all partners for their continued friendship and cooperation.

PM Shah said the government is committed to creating an investment-friendly environment, promoting entrepreneurship, and supporting sustainable development. He also noted that Nepal aims to integrate more strongly into regional and global economic frameworks in line with its national interests.

“A new government does not mean a break from continuity. We are firmly committed to maintaining political stability and ensuring that policy direction remains stable and predictable,” he said.

He also added that the government is willing to advance cooperation in areas such as development, trade, investment, climate action and people-to-people relations, while emphasising that the safety and welfare of Nepali citizens abroad remain a priority. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 9 April 2026.