FM Rana, German counterpart discuss issues of bilateral interest

Kathmandu, July 8

Minster for Foreign Affairs Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba held a bilateral meeting with her German counterpart Dr. Johann David Wadephul on Tuesday where the two discussed Nepal-Germany relations, matters of bilateral interest, and a wide range of issues of mutual concern.

FM Dr. Rana recalled that Germany is one of Nepal’s longstanding and major development and trade partners, and expressed her gratitude to the German government and people for their continued support in economic, social, and other sectors, her secretariat informed in a statement.

Emphasising the need to further promote bilateral trade between Nepal and Germany, she called for joint efforts and encouraged stronger networking between the private sectors of both countries. She also invited German investment in Nepal, particularly in areas such as the establishment of a chemical fertiliser plant.

Dr. Rana informed Dr. Wadephul that Nepal is preparing a strategy to ensure a smooth and sustainable transition following its graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2026. She stated that Nepal would require continued support in terms of resources, technology, and financing from Germany, the European Union, and other development partners during this process.

Likewise, mentioning Nepal’s candidacies for membership of the United Nations Human Rights Council for the term 2027–2029, the Economic and Social Council for 2029–2031, and the non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2037–2038, FM Dr. Rana requested for Germany's support. In response, Foreign Minister Dr. Wadephul expressed Germany’s commitment to support Nepal in these candidatures.

Minister Dr. Rana also highlighted that although Germany is the second-largest source of European tourists for Nepal and both countries share great potential in tourism, the absence of direct air connectivity has prevented full utilisation of this potential. She therefore urged for the establishment of direct flights between the two countries.

"Due to the inclusion of Nepali airlines on the EU aviation safety list and the resulting flight ban, there have been serious implications for tourism promotion between Nepal and Europe," she said while mentioning that the Government of Nepal has tabled two bills in Parliament for the restructuring of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal.

The proposed legislation incorporates not only global best practices but also aligns with the recommendations of the EU and International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). "Germany, can be a key EU member state, to play a role in lifting the ban on Nepali airlines," said Dr. Rana. In response, Dr. Wadephul assured of full cooperation in this regard.

During the meeting, Dr. Rana also raised the issue of the devastating impacts of climate change in Nepal, highlighting the country’s vulnerability and the severe consequences it is already facing. She expressed Nepal’s hope for Germany’s support in advancing its campaign for climate justice. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 9 July 2025.