Cultural festival to mark Nepal-Japan relations

Kathmandu, Sept. 16

On the occasion of the 70^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Japan, a special cultural festival is being organised on November 22 at Durbar Marg, Kathmandu.

Jointly organised by the government of Nepal, the embassy of Japan in Nepal, and Kathmandu Metropolitan City, the festival will celebrate seven decades of friendship and cooperation while carrying a broader message of solidarity, cultural exchange and support for Nepal.

A major highlight of the event will be a special performance by renowned Japanese band Godiego, marking their return to Nepal more than four decades after their historic 1980 concert at Dasharath Stadium. Their return adds a strong symbolic connection to the longstanding cultural relationship between Nepal and Japan, the organisers informed.

The festival will also feature performances by leading Nepali artistes and a range of cultural, tourism and commercial activities representing both countries.

In light of the event’s broader social purpose, any surplus generated from the festival, after necessary event expenses, will be donated to the Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund.

The organising committee said that the festival will also place a strong focus on tourism promotion, reinforcing the message that Nepal remains open, welcoming and ready to receive visitors from Japan and around the world.

Through music, culture and people-to-people engagement, the Nepal-Japan 70th Anniversary Special Cultural Festival aims to honour a historic relationship while promoting friendship, resilience, tourism and shared responsibility.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 17 September 2026.    

MoU signed to employ Nepali drivers in Japan

Kathmandu, Sept. 16

Nepali and Japanese institutions have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to recruit Nepali drivers for Japan's automobile transportation sector under the Specified Skilled Worker framework.

The initiative will select, train, and deploy qualified drivers from Nepal to Japan at no cost to the candidates, according to representatives involved in the agreement.

Japanese recruitment agency heads Shiro Shogawa, Yoshinobu Murase and Yukiguni Education Consultancy CEO Rajkumar Tamang (RK), along with Mother Brain Nepal Chairman Krishna Giri, Yukiguni Education Manager Ashok Lama, Japanese Education Group Chairman Rupsing Tamang and Antique Driving School operator Saroj Swangamikka signed the agreements.

Speaking at the MoU signing programme organised in Kathmandu on Wednesday, Giri said that it is the first formal step to open door for Nepali drivers to get employment in Japan. "It will educate the drivers going to Japan and enhance their skills," he said.

Shiro said that the drivers will undergo a practical part and online learning for their skill enhancement, and Japanese and Nepali driving schools will play an instrumental role for it.

The three partner agencies in Nepal will select drivers and arrange the necessary training under the Nepal-Japan SSW Automobile Transportation Recruitment Programme.

Tamang said that Nepali drivers holding driving licences would be provided with the required training and Japanese language instruction before being sent to Japan for employment.

He said that all arrangements, from candidate selection and training to the process of travelling to Japan for employment, would be provided free of charge under the programme.

As per the MoU, candidates holding valid Nepali driving licenses will undergo technical training, driving instruction, and Japanese language courses prior to deployment. Three designated Nepali recruitment agencies will handle the initial selection and processing of applicants.

Organisers said the zero-cost recruitment framework aims to create formal employment pathways for skilled transport workers while expanding labour cooperation between the two countries.

The organisers said the programme, which has been launched with the objective of providing employment opportunities in Japan to skilled and suitably qualified drivers from Nepal, is expected to further expand labour and employment cooperation between Nepal and Japan.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 17 September 2026.    

Japanese investors eye hospitality sector

Kathmandu, Sept. 5

Japanese businesspeople have expressed interest in making investment in Nepal's hospitality and tourism sector. In a discussion with Nepali entrepreneurs on Friday in Kathmandu, they said the prospects of political and policy stability following the formation of near-two-third majority government, has enhanced their confidence to invest in Nepal.

Business delegation led by Toshiyuki Nakamura had discussed the investment prospects with owner of Taro Treks and Expedition, and Taro Japanese Language Consultancy Bishal Bhattarai, President of Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal Sagar Pandey, Member of Hotel Association of Nepal Bidhata Shrestha, Director of Royal Express Cargo Pramod Dhakal, and tourism entrepreneurs Amrit Dhakal and Furi-G.Sherpa, among others.

"Initially, we are interested to make an investment in a Japanese cuisine restaurant," said Toshiyuki. He runs seven companies in Japan in hospitality, transport and logistics sectors. He has employed several Nepali workers in his companies and wants to launch a restaurant within a couple of years so that when Nepalis return from Japan they could be employed here. It is about employing the skilled workers in the field, he said.

Talking about the decreasing number of tourists, Japanese entrepreneurs said that the depreciating Japanese currency against the US dollar, increased flight fare and lack of direct connectivity had negatively impacted it. Stating that the media coverage of recent Bhotekoshi floods had scared them and they were about to cancel the trip to Nepal, they said that when they arrived here, the situation was otherwise.

Nepali entrepreneurs have expressed concerns over the decreasing number of Japanese tourists since the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Bhattarai, who hosted the discussion, said that attracting tourists and investment is a highly sensitive issue, so the government, private sector and media should exhibit utmost sensitivity while dealing with them.

Nepali entrepreneurs also said that the government should launch initiative to tell the international community that the country is safe for tourism and investment, and only a small part of the country is affected by the devastating floods. 

Published in The Rising Nepal on 6 September 2026.   

Nepal, Japan exchange notes to mark 70 years of relations

 Kathmandu, Sept. 1

Nepal and Japan have exchanged congratulatory messages on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal, in his message to his Japanese counterpart Motegi Toshimitsu, has extended warm greetings and felicitations to the latter and through him to the Government and friendly people of Japan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) informed in a statement.

FM Khanal appreciated the valuable support received from Japan, which is one of the largest development partners, in Nepal’s development endeavors, and said that substantial engagements at different levels between the two sides in the areas of trade, investment, energy, infrastructure, tourism, education and culture have been growing steadily.

He has also expressed confidence that the enduring multifaceted partnership will be further consolidated and enhanced in the years ahead.

Similarly, Japanese FM Motegi, in his message to FM Khanal, has mentioned that since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1956, the two countries have deepened cooperation across a wide range of areas, including economy, culture, education, and people-to-people exchanges and forged an amicable relationship.

Referring to the opening of the Nagdhunga Tunnel, constructed through Japanese loan assistance, he has said that it would contribute to improving people’s lives and stimulating economic activities in Nepal.

President Ramchandra Paudel had visited Japan in February this year to commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

Motegi also expressed desire to further promoting exchanges and cooperation between the two countries across a broad range of fields, informed the MoFA.

Published in The Rising Nepal on 2 September 2026.   

Nepal, Japan to mark 70 years of diplomatic relations

Kathmandu, July 28

The Nepal AOTS Alumni Society (Nepal AOTS), in collaboration with the Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC), is marking the 70^th anniversary of the establishment of Nepal-Japan diplomatic relations with investment and trade fair and exhibitions.

The events expanding two days on coming Thursday and Friday in Lalitpur will feature Nepal-Japan semblance exhibition, Japanese tea ceremony, Nepal-Japan business, investment and trade fair, and business seminar and panel discussion.

The commemorative celebration is being organised with the support of the Embassy of Japan in Nepal, the Association for Overseas Technical Cooperation and Sustainable Partnerships (AOTS), Japan, and the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Nepal (JCCN).

The exhibition will showcase approximately 70 carefully curated exhibits (comprising 60 visual exhibits and 10 traditional food displays,) highlighting the similarities between Nepal and Japan in culture, traditions, lifestyle, architecture, festivals, arts, cuisine, and social values.

"Visitors will experience one of Japan's most cherished cultural traditions, where the preparation and sharing of matcha symbolising the principles of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility that lie at the heart of the Japanese Tea Ceremony," read the statement issued jointly by the Nepal AOTS and NCC.

Likewise, the Business, Investment and Trade Fair will feature around two dozen exhibition booths/stalls, with more than 20 Nepali and Japanese companies, organisations, and entrepreneurs showcasing their products, services, technologies, innovations, investment opportunities, and successful bilateral business collaborations.

A delegation of 20 Japanese entrepreneurs and business representatives will visit Nepal to participate in the event, providing a unique platform for direct business engagement, investment promotion, technology exchange, and partnership development between Nepali and Japanese enterprises.

Similarly, the panel discussion is a high-level forum bringing together policymakers, industry experts, business leaders, and professionals to discuss trade, investment, technology transfer, industrial cooperation, human resource development, innovation, and future opportunities for strengthening Nepal-Japan economic relations.

According to the organisers, the event is expected to attract more than 3,000 visitors during the two-day celebration, making it one of the largest public commemorative events organised in Nepal to mark the 70th anniversary of Nepal-Japan diplomatic relations.

The event is expected to create new avenues for business partnerships, investment promotion, knowledge exchange, and economic cooperation between the two countries.

"The 2-day celebration aims to commemorate this important milestone while further strengthening bilateral friendship and collaboration through a series of business, cultural, and educational programs. The event will bring together distinguished dignitaries, government officials, diplomats, business leaders, development partners, academia, alumni, cultural organizations, entrepreneurs, and members from the both countries," read the statement.

The year 2026 marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Japan. Diplomatic relations were formally established through the Exchange of Notes on 1 September 1956, marking the beginning of an enduring partnership that has grown over seven decades based on mutual trust, respect, friendship, and cooperation.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 29 July 2026.         

Fordays Nepal launches training for workers

Kathmandu, Feb. 18

Fordays Nepal Pvt. Ltd. has been launched in Kathmandu on Wednesday with the objective of providing specialised, field-based training to Nepali nationals preparing to work in Japan under structured labour programmes.

The company said that it is the first company in Nepal established with the specific aim of developing skilled and competent workers domestically before their deployment to Japan.

"The company will provide training under Japan’s Technical Intern Training Programme (TITP) and Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) scheme," Authorised Representative of Fordays in Nepal Prem Katuwal said at a programme organised to inaugurate the company formally.

The training will focus on three sectors- food service, fine dining, and elderly care. According to Katuwal, the initiative seeks to enhance workers’ technical competence and workplace readiness, thereby reducing the difficulties Nepali workers often face after arriving in Japan.

The training is designed as a 130-hour field-based programme and will be offered to candidates who have already passed the Japanese language examination, succeeded in employment interviews with recruiting companies, and obtained the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from Japanese immigration authorities.

Fordays Nepal aims to train 300 individuals annually in each sector, with a total annual target of 900 trainees.

Company said Nepali workers in these sectors are often required to undergo additional training in Japan before starting work.

According to Katuwal, by providing practical training in Nepal, including orientation on workplace practices, language use, and living conditions, the programme intends to help workers transition more smoothly into employment. The training will be delivered by Japanese instructors deputed from Japan.

The company also noted that many Nepali students travel to Japan on student visas after completing basic language requirements, often investing significant sums but lacking practical job skills. Fordays stated that its programme is intended to address this gap by focusing on employment-oriented training.

Speaking at the programme, Secretary of the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security, Dr. Dipak Kafle, lauded the establishment of the company and said that there should more efforts in sending skilled workers to Japan so that the both the individual and the country could be benefitted.

A delegation from Fordays Co. Ltd., Japan, including its chief executive, attended the inaugural programme. They appreciated the infrastructure, amenities and equipment managed to train the students in a real-life scenario. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 19 February 2026.     

President Paudel returns home

Kathmandu, Feb. 4

President Ramchandra Paudel returned home on Wednesday after completing his 4-day official visit to Japan.

Vice President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav, Prime Minister Sushila Karki, cabinet ministers, and heads of the security agencies welcomed him at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).

At the invitation of the Government of Japan, President Paudel, accompanied by First Lady Sabita Paudel, led a Nepali delegation to attend a special ceremony marking the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Japan.

 He departed for Japan on Sunday night.

During his visit, President Paudel attended a special reception in Tokyo organised by the Japanese government to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Nepal–Japan diplomatic relations, and addressed the ceremony, informed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA).  

He also paid a courtesy call on Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. In addition, he held courtesy meetings with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Iwao Horii.

Likewise, President Paudel addressed programmes organised by the Japanese business community and the Nepali diaspora in Japan. He also inspected the Embassy of Nepal in Japan.

Nepal and Japan established diplomatic relations on September 1, 1956. Following this, Nepal opened its embassy in Tokyo in 1965, while Japan established its embassy in Kathmandu in 1967.

Japan is Nepal's major development partner and supported in various large-scale infrastructure development, human resource creation and technology transfer. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 5 February 2026. 

President Paudel to visit Japan from Feb. 1

 Kathmandu, Jan. 30

President Ramchandra Paudel is paying an official visit to Japan from 1 to 4 February at the invitation of the Government of Japan, commemorating the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Japan this year.

President is scheduled to have a State call on Japanese Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on Tuesday, February 3, Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) Amrit Bahadur Rai informed at a press meet on Friday. The President will also have a meeting with Takaichi Sanae, Prime Minister of Japan, on the same day.

On Monday, President Paudel will attend the special reception hosted by State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan Horii Iwao, on behalf of the Government of Japan, to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Nepal-Japan diplomatic relations. Prior to this, State Minister Horii is scheduled to pay a courtesy call on the President.

During the visit, the President Paudel will also participate in a meeting with the Japanese business community, and will attend a reception hosted in his honour by the Embassy of Nepal.

President will be accompanied by his spouse Sabita Paudel and high-ranking government officials.

President will return to Kathmandu on Wednesday, February 4.

Nepal and Japan had established formal bilateral diplomatic relations on 1 September 1956. The MoFA mentioned in its website that Japanese Buddhist monk Ekai Kawaguchi came to Nepal on his way to Tibet in 1899 in search of Buddhist scriptures. He introduced Nepal and highlighted the importance of Lumbini to the Japanese people through his writings.

Nepal established its embassy in Tokyo in 1965 and Japan established its embassy in Kathmandu in 1967. Nepal also has an Honorary Consulate in Osaka.

The year 2022 marked the 120^th anniversary of the international student exchange between the two countries – in 1902 eight Nepali students had reached Japan for higher studies.

 

Major development partner

Japan is one of the top development partners of Nepal and has supported in large projects like Kaligandaki A Hydropower Project, Melamchi Water Supply Project, Nagdhunga Tunnel, Maitighar-Suryabinayak Road and BP Highway, policy initiatives like Agriculture Development Strategy, Public Broadcasting and disaster management and post-disaster reconstruction of public infrastructure including health and educational institutions.

Japan has been providing Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) since 1970 and senior volunteer under JICA Volunteer Programme. Nepali government officials are being trained in Japan under the Japan Development Scholarship since 2016.

The size of trade between the two countries stands at Rs. 6.59 billion with Nepal exporting merchandise worth Rs. 1.91 billion and witnessing a trade deficit of Rs. 4.68 billion in 2024/25.

According to the statistics of the Department of Customs, Nepal's major imports from Japan are vehicle and spare parts, iron and steel, computers, textile spinning machines, photographic plates, methionline, smartphone, toner cartridge and transmission apparatus.

Likewise, Nepal's major exports to Japan are readymade garments, herbs and herbals, wheat flour, tea, coffee, felt products, dog and cat food, dalmoth and namkeen, hand-made paper, carpets, leather goods and silverware. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 31 January 2026. 

President Paudel meets Emperor Naruhito

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. 

Japanese ambassador Maeda calls on PM

Kathmandu, Dec. 5

Maeda Toru, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Sushila Karki at her office in Singha Durbar on Friday.

He reached the Prime Minister's Office to discuss various matters related to the celebration of the 70th anniversary of Nepal–Japan relations, informed the PMO.

On the occasion, Ambassador Maeda commended the government's commitment to holding elections on time and reiterated that the Government of Japan stands ready to provide any necessary assistance sought by the Nepali government.

Prime Minister Karki expressed gratitude for Japan’s continued support to Nepal’s development and various other sectors, and conveyed her confidence that the cooperation and goodwill between the two countries would continue in the days ahead.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 6 December 2025.

Japan offers Rs. 31.76 billion loan for Koteshwor Junction Improvement Project

Kathmandu, Dec. 3

A loan agreement for the Koteshwor Junction Improvement Project is signed between the governments of Nepal and Japan.

Japan has provided loan assistance equivalent to 34.59 billion Japanese yen (around Rs. 31.76 billion) for the project. The loan, to be provided through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), will carry a grace period of 10 years, a repayment period of 30 years, and an annual interest rate of 0.2 per cent.

Under this project, an underpass and a flyover will be constructed along the Koteshwor and Jadibuti sections, which is expected to significantly ease the movement of vehicles travelling through Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur and the BP Highway, and help reduce traffic congestion. The project will be implemented through the Department of Roads under the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, the Finance Ministry informed in a statement.

Finance Secretary Dr. Ghanashyam Upadhyay and Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Maeda Toru signed the Exchange of Notes for the loan support in the presence of Finance Minister Rameshore Prasad Khanal at the Ministry of Finance on Wednesday.

Likewise, the loan agreement was signed by Joint Secretary Dr. Dhaniram Sharma, Chief of the International Economic Cooperation Division at the Ministry of Finance, and Mitsuzaki Masuki, Chief Representative of JICA Nepal.

Ambassador Maeda expressed confidence that the implementation of the Koteshwor Junction Improvement Project through Japan’s concessional loan assistance would bring significant improvements to the Kathmandu Valley’s transport system, and also recalled the decades-long friendly relationship between Nepal and Japan.

Likewise, Finance Minister Khanal said, under Nepal–Japan cooperation, this project aims to bring progress to one of the major traffic-congested points in the Kathmandu Valley, and expressed confidence that it would bring long-term improvements to the Capital’s transport management.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 4 December 2025.

Nepal, Japan sign JDS project

Kathmandu, July 9

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Government of Nepal (GoN) on Wednesday signed a grant agreement for Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS) project Fiscal Year 2025/26.

The 572 million Japanese Yen (Rs. 534.4 million) agreement reaffirmed the commitment of both governments for enhancing the capacity of Nepal’s civil service through advanced education, JICA said in a statement. Japan has been providing this scholarship continuously since 2016.

The Exchange of Notes regarding the assistance was signed by Ghanashyam Upadhaya, Secretary of the Ministry of Finance and Maeda Toru, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal.

Likewise, the Grant Agreement was signed by Dhani Ram Sharma, Joint Secretary, International Economic Cooperation Coordination Division (IECCD) at the MoF and Matsuzaki Mizuki, Chief Representative of JICA Nepal Office.

Each year, the scholarship offers 20 seats for a two-year master’s degree course and two seats for a three-year doctoral level course at the universities of Japan. “These scholarships enable participants to study at prestigious Japanese universities, enhancing their expertise in fields such as judiciary and economic policy while also expanding their global professional networks,” read the statement.

The grant has provided scholarships to 209 civil servants from Nepal so far.

The JDS programme aims to bolster the administrative capacities of young and promising civil servants with advanced skills to become future leaders. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 10 July 2025.   

Japanese embassy hands over equipment to Bayalpata Hospital

Kathmandu, June 25

The Japanese Embassy in Kathmandu handed over medical equipment to Bayalpata Hospital Sanfebagar Municipality of Achham district on Tuesday.

Charge d’Affairs and Interim of the Embassy, Tamura Takahiro, was present on the occasion.

The medical equipment, intended for trauma care and orthopaedic surgery, was funded through the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) by the Government of Japan. A grant of USD 66,263 (approximately Rs. 8.9 million) was provided for this purpose, the Japanese Embassy informed in a statement.

Bayalpata Hospital is a key medical institution, serving Achham, Bajura, and Doti districts in Sudurpaschim Province, as well as Kalikot and Dailekh districts in Karnali province. The NGO Nyaya Health Nepal operates it in partnership with the support from provincial and local governments.

Tamura hoped this support will enhance the medical environment, improve access to quality healthcare in rural areas of Nepal, and foster stronger ties between Japan and Nepal.

The GGP scheme was established to support socio-economic development through projects directly benefiting people at the grassroots level. Since its inception in 1991, over 200 GGP projects have been implemented in Nepal.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 26 June 2025. 

Japan visit fruitful: FM Rana

Kathmandu, May 25

Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba said that her recently concluded five-day visit to Japan was fruitful.

Upon her return to the country last night, she informed that during the visit, she held several important meetings, including with the Foreign Minister of Japan, and discussed Nepal-Japan cooperation and various development projects, noting that these engagements were beneficial for the country, the Minister's Secretariat informed in a statement on Sunday.

She also took part in an international conference on senior citizens held in Tokyo.

FM Dr. Rana said, "During this visit, discussions were held on various aspects of Nepal-Japan relations, including Japanese assistance and projects in Nepal. The conference on senior citizens also provided an opportunity to learn about the policies adopted by other countries regarding senior citizens, as well as their conditions and management systems."

A bilateral meeting between FM Dr. Rana and her Japanese counterpart Takeshi Iwaya took place on May 21 in Tokyo. On that occasion, discussions were held on various matters of mutual interest and concern, including Nepal-Japan bilateral relations.

Likewise, on May 22, she also held talks with Dr. Akihiko Tanaka, President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). During the meeting, Minister Dr. Rana expressed gratitude for the long-standing support extended by the Japanese government through JICA in Nepal’s economic, social, and other sectors, and discussed the projects currently being implemented or completed with JICA's support.

Earlier, Japan’s Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Akiko Ikuina had paid a courtesy call on FM Dr. Rana.

Upon her return to Nepal on Saturday night, she was welcomed at the Tribhuvan International Airport by Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai and other officials. She had departed for Japan last Monday.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 26 May 2025. 

FM Rana urges for Japanese investment in Nepal

Kathmandu, May 23

Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba held a meeting with the President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Dr. Tanaka Akihiko, on Friday.

The meeting took place at JICA’s headquarters in Tokyo, during which discussions were held on various matters of bilateral relations and mutual interest between Nepal and Japan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) informed in a statement.

During the meeting, Dr. Rana expressed appreciation for JICA’s assistance in areas such as economic growth and poverty alleviation, disaster risk reduction, climate change, and the strengthening of good governance and democracy through its fundamental cooperation policy for Nepal.

She also commended the recent support provided by the Japanese government through JICA in various sectors of Nepal, including the construction of the Nagdhunga Tunnel, the reconstruction and maintenance of the Sindhuli-Bardibas road, among others.

The meeting also included discussions on Nepal-Japan relations, JICA’s ongoing support to Nepal, climate change and its impacts, disaster management, good governance, and issues related to senior citizens, read the statement.

On the same day, at a luncheon hosted by the Japan-Nepal Development Forum, led by former Vice-Minister for Finance of Japan, Motoyuki Odachi, in her honour, FM Dr. Rana urged and encouraged Japanese investors to invest in Nepal as there exists immense potentials in the priority sectors of Nepal’s development, adding that the Government of Nepal is committed to ensuring the safety of their investment.

Earlier, she addressed the annual conference of the Foundation for the Welfare and Education for the Asian People (FWEAP) on May 21 in Tokyo. Addressing on the topic of Social Isolation and Loneliness among older people, she stated that the existing institutional frameworks and legal provisions of Nepal give protection to senior citizens along with key issues and future pathways for action, read the statement by the MoFA. 

Earlier, on Thursday, FM Dr. Rana held an official meeting with her Japanese counterpart Takeshi Iwaya. During the meeting, Iwaya expressed his desire to further strengthen bilateral relations based on the traditional friendship between Japan and Nepal.

FM Dr. Rana expressed her hopes that Nepal would receive an enhanced level of development cooperation from Japan in Nepal’s effort for graduating from LDC category next year 2026.

Mentioning that the two countries share age-old socio-cultural ties inspired from the teachings of Gautam Buddha, she further said that the presence of a large Nepali community, which is the fifth largest among foreign residents in Japan, has been a remarkable aspect of the bilateral relations between the two countries.

Likewise, on Tuesday, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan Akiko Ikuina paid a courtesy call on FM Dr. Rana and discussed the matters for further enhancing the mutually rewarding relationship and the celebration 70^th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Japan.

The Foreign Minister of Nepal is in Tokyo for a four-day goodwill visit. She will return to Kathmandu on Saturday. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 May 2025. 

Minister Rana holds talks with Japanese counterpart

Kathmandu, May 22

Nepal’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, and her Japanese counterpart, Iwaya Takeshi, held a bilateral meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) of Japan in Tokyo on Thursday.

FM Dr. Rana is on an official visit of Japan for five days.

During the meeting, the two ministers discussed various matters of mutual interest and shared concern, as well as the broader scope of Nepal-Japan bilateral relations, the MoFA of Nepal said in a statement.

The ministers also exchanged views on various aspects of the 70-year history of Nepal-Japan relations. Diplomatic relations between Nepal and Japan were established in 1956, and both countries will be celebrating the 70^th anniversary of their diplomatic ties next year.

Likewise, FM Dr. Rana extended an invitation to Foreign Minister Iwaya to visit Nepal in connection with the celebrations of the 70^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

She also requested Japan’s continued support for Nepal as it is set to graduate from the status of a Least Developed Country (LDC) to a Developing Country in 2026 and beyond.

FM Dr. Rana urged Minister Iwaya to encourage Japanese investors and entrepreneurs to invest in Nepal, stating that there are numerous investment opportunities in the country and that the country is committed to ensuring the security and protection of foreign investments.

Highlighting that Nepal and Japan share not only formal diplomatic ties but also a long-standing historical and cultural bond, FM Dr. Rana said, “The two countries have ancient socio-cultural relations inspired by the teachings of Lord Gautam Buddha. Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, serves as a cultural bridge between Nepal and the people of Japan.”

She further noted that thousands of Japanese tourists visit Nepal every year to study and observe the spiritual and cultural uniqueness of places like Lumbini. The ministers also discussed potential areas of cooperation in the tourism sector in the future.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 23 May 2025. 

FM Dr. Rana leaves for Tokyo

Kathmandu, May 20

Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has departed for Japan on Monday evening to participate in an international conference set to begin in Tokyo on Wednesday.

She will represent Nepal and deliver an address at the conference, which focuses on social isolation among the elderly.

The event is organised by the Foundation for the Welfare and Education of the Asian People and will see participation from ministers, senior government officials, and prominent social activists from over 12 countries.

FM Dr. Rana, who has long been involved in the economic empowerment and social protection of Nepali women through organisations such as the Rural Women's Development and Unity Centre (RUWDUC) and the Safe Motherhood Network, has been invited as a special speaker at the conference, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) informed in a statement.

During her stay in Japan, she is also scheduled to hold important bilateral meetings. She is expected to return to Nepal on Saturday.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 21 May 2025. 

Japan Vice-Minister pays courtesy call on FM Rana

Kathmandu, May 17

Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Akiko Ikuina, paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba on Saturday.

Deputy Minister Ikuina, who is currently in Nepal to participate in the Sagarmatha Sambaad, held the sideline meeting at Hotel Soaltee, the venue of the event.

During the meeting, Foreign Minister Dr. Rana expressed her gratitude to the Government of Japan for its support in the reconstruction and maintenance of the Sindhuli–Bardibas road.

The road had sustained significant damage due to excessive rainfall last year. Following a request from Nepal, Japan agreed to assist in the repair and reconstruction of the road which was originally built with Japanese grant assistance.

Furthermore, FM Dr. Rana and the Japanese Deputy Foreign Minister discussed various aspects of bilateral relations between the two countries. She also urged Japan to continue supporting and expressing solidarity with Nepal’s call for climate justice on international platforms.

Likewise, FM Dr. Rana has urged the Special Envoy for Climate Change and Sustainability of the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bader Omar Ismail Al Dafa, to intensify efforts regarding the condition and repatriation of Bipin Joshi.

She made the request during a meeting at the sidelines of the Sagarmatha Dialogue on Friday.

The two discussed the situation of Bipin Joshi, a Nepali youth abducted by Hamas in October 2023.

FM Dr. Rana expressed her appreciation for the efforts made by Qatar for Joshi’s release and return to Nepal and requested continued and intensified efforts in this regard. She has previously appealed several times to the Qatari Foreign Minister and to key mediators in peace talks between Hamas and Israel to take necessary initiatives for Joshi’s release.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 18 May 2025. 

Nepal, Japan sign 573 million Yen grant agreement

Kathmandu, May 16

Nepal and Japan have signed a memorandum of understanding for an additional grant of 573 million Japanese Yen for the Dhulikhel Hospital Trauma and Emergency Centre Improvement Project.

The agreement was signed by Finance Secretary Ghanshyam Upadhyaya and Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Maeda Toru in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel and Japan’s Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ikui Akiko on Friday.

Earlier, in October 2023, the Government of Japan had agreed to provide a grant of 3.29 billion Yen for the implementation of the same project.

Following the signing ceremony, Finance Minister Paudel and Vice-Minister Akiko held a separate bilateral meeting, the Ministry of Finance informed in a statement.

 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 17 May 2025. 

Nepal-Japan friendship is pure, unblemished: PM

Kathmandu, Feb. 28

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has expressed confidence that the upcoming Third Nepal-Japan Friendship Summit 2025 will further strengthen the bilateral ties between the two nations.

Speaking with a Japanese delegation and Nepali coordinators attending the summit at the Prime Minister's Residence in Baluwatar on Friday,  PM Oli highlighted the long-standing relationship between Nepal and Japan, which has now expanded to include trade and economic cooperation.

“Nepalis have gone to Japan for better employment opportunities. Nepal’s paper has reached Japan, and Japan’s Golden Trout has entered Nepal. There are numerous dimensions to such strong people-to-people connections,” said PM Oli.

According to him, the friendship between the two nations is pure and unblemished, like the blooming Sakura. This problem-free relationship and development partnership must be further elevated with the support of information technology, he maintained.

PM Oli also noted that Japan serves as an example of how peace fosters development while war leads to destruction. He also reiterated Nepal’s strong desire and active efforts to promote global peace.

The summit, organised by the IDEA Studio was held in Nepal from February 26 to 28.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 1 March 2025.