70th Anniversary of Nepal–Russia Diplomatic Relations Celebrated in Kathmandu
Dragon Media News Desk
A special programme was held at the Russian House in Kathmandu to mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Russia.
During the event, held on July 20, congratulatory messages exchanged by Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov were read aloud.
In his message, Khanal extended congratulations to the Russian government and people and expressed Nepal’s commitment to working closely with Russia to further strengthen and expand bilateral relations. He also emphasised the need to identify new areas of cooperation to deepen and diversify the partnership in the years ahead.
Lavrov expressed Russia’s willingness to work jointly with Nepal to strengthen the longstanding partnership for the mutual benefit of the peoples of both countries. Nepal and the former Soviet Union formally established diplomatic relations on July 20, 1956.
Addressing the programme, Russian Ambassador to Nepal Alexei Surovtsev thanked the numerous Russian and Nepali public organisations that have continued to support bilateral cooperation.
“We feel the special and warm attitude of the Nepali people towards us,” he said. “This friendship, tested over decades, provides the solid foundation on which we intend to build a new and modern architecture of cooperation.”
Anastasia Khokhlova, director of the Russian House, said thousands of Nepali graduates of Soviet and Russian universities have long served as an important bridge between Moscow and Kathmandu.
Representatives of the Nepal–Russia Scientific Society, the Association of Graduates of Soviet and Russian Universities, Mitra Kunj, the Friends of RUDN Society, the Nepal–Russia Literary Association, the Nepal–Russia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Shaili Theatre also spoke about their organisations’ contributions to bilateral relations.
The programme included the opening of a historical photo exhibition titled “Russia–Nepal: 70 Years of Friendship and Cooperation.” Musical and dance performances showcasing the rich artistic and cultural traditions of both countries were also presented.
The chief guest was Barshaman Pun, a member of Nepal’s House of Representatives and coordinator of the Nepal–Russia Parliamentary Friendship Group. Nepal formed the parliamentary friendship group in December 2024.
A certificate of appreciation was presented to Swaraj Shakya, general secretary of the Nepal–Russia Friendship and Cultural Association, in recognition of his contribution to promoting bilateral cooperation.
Relations between Nepal and Russia are based not only on political and diplomatic engagement but also on cooperation in education, culture, science, trade and people-to-people exchanges.
The Soviet Union supported Nepal’s infrastructure and industrial development through projects including Kanti Children’s Hospital, the Panauti Hydropower Station, the Pathlaiya–Dhalkebar road, the Janakpur Cigarette Factory, the Agricultural Tools Factory and the Birgunj Sugar Mill.
