'Nepal, Canada entering new phase of national development'

 Kathmandu, July 30

Deputy High Commissioner of Canada to Nepal Dr. Mark Allen has described the consultations as an important opportunity to renew and elevate bilateral relations at a time when both countries are entering new phases of national development.

Speaking at a meeting with the Ambassadors Club Nepal he said that since governments alone cannot shape the future of international relations, other stakeholders have their role to play in it. "Diplomats, civil society, academia, think tanks, businesses, entrepreneurs, and young leaders all have essential roles to play in building stronger partnerships between nations," said Dr. Allen.

His visit to Nepal coincided with the Fourth Meeting of the Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM) between Nepal and Canada.

He remarked that diplomacy has never been more relevant than it is today as the world navigates significant geopolitical shifts, emerging technologies, climate challenges, and changing economic realities. Maintaining dialogue, trust, and people-to-people connections, he noted, will remain fundamental to building peaceful and prosperous international partnerships.

He was accompanied by Dr. Buddha Basnyat, Honorary Consul of Canada to Nepal, and Tejdeep Kaur.

Dr. Allen was welcomed by Dr. Sharmila Parajuli Dhakal, President of Ambassadors Club Nepal, as well as International Relations Global Diplomacy Dialogue (IRGDD), Diplomat Nepal, and Diplomatic Academy Nepal (DAN).

She noted that the previous year marked the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Canada, a partnership built on mutual respect, democratic values, friendship, and development cooperation since 1965.

"Over the past year, we have dedicated ourselves to bridging worlds through dialogue, diplomacy, and partnership. Today, we continue this journey with greater enthusiasm, stronger commitment, and a shared vision of creating meaningful international cooperation that benefits nations and people alike."

Dr. Parajuli also highlighted the vibrant and growing Nepali community in Canada, describing it as a living bridge connecting the peoples of both countries through education, entrepreneurship, culture, innovation, and people-to-people relations. She welcomed Canada's recognition of Nepal Heritage Day, calling it a meaningful acknowledgement of Nepal's rich cultural heritage and the valuable contributions of the Nepali diaspora.