PM Karki talks to UAE President

Kathmandu, Mar. 7

Prime Minister Sushila Karki held a telephone conversation with the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, on Saturday afternoon.

During the conversation, Prime Minister Karki condemned the attacks targeting civilian infrastructure in the UAE’s sovereign territory and expressed Nepal’s solidarity with the UAE in these challenging times. She urged all parties involved to exercise maximum restraint, avoid escalating tensions, and ensure the safety of civilians, the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement.

Stating that war can never be an alternative to peace, PM Karki emphasised that lasting peace can only be achieved through diplomacy and dialogue. She also expressed Nepal’s hope that the situation would return to normal as soon as possible.

She expressed gratitude to the UAE government for ensuring public safety and for taking equal care of all residents, including Nepali citizens working and living there, as well as visitors and those in transit. She also expressed deep sorrow upon learning of the tragic loss of a Nepali citizen’s life on duty at Zayed International Airport on March 1.

Additionally, she conveyed concern upon hearing of two Nepali citizens being injured in the ICAD area of Abu Dhabi on March 5.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Karki also highly praised the UAE President's leadership in continuously contributing to regional and global diplomatic efforts to promote peace and development.

She expressed confidence that, in the coming years, economic cooperation and the relationship between the peoples of the two countries would continue to strengthen, expanding and solidifying their bilateral ties.

Likewise, Prime Minister Karki conveyed heartfelt wishes for peace, justice, and harmony on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan.

“During the telephone conversation, she mentioned that while Nepal is not directly involved in the current tensions, it is bearing the consequences. She also highlighted the immediate concerns about the safety of Nepali citizens, as well as long-term economic pressures such as rising fuel prices, a contraction in investment flows, and increasing inflation,” read the statement.

Prime Minister Karki expressed confidence that transit passengers would gradually be able to depart safely to Nepal or third countries once the situation becomes more manageable.

The President of the UAE Al Nahyan thanked Prime Minister Karki on behalf of the UAE for Nepal’s solidarity and sympathy, as demonstrated by its response as a true friend in these difficult circumstances. He expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of a Nepali citizen.

According to the PMO, he expressed satisfaction with the long-standing cordial and friendly relations between Nepal and the UAE, and commended the hardworking nature and good conduct of Nepali people.

President Al Nahyan mentioned that both countries' ambassadors are making every effort to ensure the safety and welfare of Nepali citizens. He assured that he is ready to take all necessary steps to guarantee the security of Nepali citizens.

He also mentioned that he was aware that some Nepalis wish to return to Nepal and assured that once the situation eases, all possible assistance will be provided to facilitate their return.

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 March 2026.