Russia and Nepal seek to deepen cooperation after talks in Kathmandu
Dragon Media News Desk
Russia and Nepal have agreed to intensify communication and explore opportunities to expand cooperation following bilateral consultations in Kathmandu on October 7, according to the Russian Foreign Ministry’s account of the meeting.
The Russian delegation was led by Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko, while Nepal’s delegation was headed by Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai. The consultations covered political relations, economic cooperation, education, culture, tourism, consular matters and the legal framework governing bilateral ties.
The Russian side described the talks as the first consultations in this format since 2018 and said both sides had expressed interest in maintaining more regular dialogue. It also welcomed Nepal’s participation through representatives from ministries involved in bilateral cooperation.
On economic ties, the sides discussed the work of a bilateral group established to exchange information on trade and investment opportunities. Its first meeting was held online on September 30, with officials from Russia’s Ministry of Economic Development and Nepal’s Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies. The Russian side said the mechanism could help identify areas of shared interest and assess potential projects.
Education was another focus. Russia said around 7,000 Nepali graduates of Soviet and Russian universities have contributed to Nepal’s development and expressed hope that scholarships could support Nepali students with strong academic records.
The delegations also discussed cultural exchanges and travel to Nepal by Russian visitors for trekking and Buddhist pilgrimage. The Russian side said tourism demand could be supported by practical measures. It added that Russian agencies were working with Nepal’s Department of Consular Services on matters concerning Nepali nationals in Russia.
Both sides expressed interest in gradually expanding the legal agreements underpinning their relationship. The consultations took place as Nepal and Russia mark 70 years of diplomatic relations. A reception at Soaltee Kathmandu followed the meeting.
The Russian delegation also conveyed condolences over the loss of life and damage caused by flooding in Nepal on August 26. In a Dashain greeting, the Russian side wished peace, prosperity and well-being to those celebrating the festival.
