70 Years of Russia–Nepal Diplomatic Relations Marked in Kathmandu

Dragon Media News Desk

The Russian Embassy in Nepal hosted a reception at the Soaltee Hotel in Kathmandu on October 7 to mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Russia and Nepal. The event coincided with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko’s visit to Nepal for bilateral consultations between the two countries’ foreign ministries.

Among the Nepali officials attending were Home Minister Sudhan Gurung, Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies Dipak Kumar Sah, and Ganesh Prasad Dhakal, joint secretary and head of the Europe Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In his welcoming remarks, Rudenko recalled that the Soviet Union and Nepal established diplomatic relations on July 20, 1956, and highlighted key milestones in their cooperation.

Rudenko said Soviet assistance, which became a foreign policy priority for Nepal during King Mahendra’s reign, contributed significantly to the country’s development. The Soviet Union provided support to build hydropower plants, factories, a hospital and highways free of charge, he said. Russia is ready to expand cooperation with Nepal, with particular emphasis on industry, agriculture and energy.

The reception also highlighted educational and cultural ties. About 6,000 Nepalis have received higher education in Russia over the seven decades, going on to become doctors, engineers and entrepreneurs. Rudenko praised Mitra Kunj, the association of graduates of Soviet and Russian universities, and other organisations working to strengthen exchanges between the two countries. He said Russia was taking steps to enable Nepali students to continue studying at Russian universities.

The Russian House in Kathmandu and the Nepal–Russia Friendship and Cultural Association prepared a historical photo exhibition, “Russia–Nepal: 70 Years of Friendship and Cooperation,” for the reception. Russian Ambassador to Nepal Alexey Surovtsev said the anniversary was not only an opportunity to review the relationship’s achievements, but also a strong foundation for future partnership.