Israeli Ambassador Pays Tribute to Nepal’s First Elected Prime Minister at B.P. Museum

Israel’s Ambassador to Nepal, Shmulik Arie Bass, paid a heartfelt tribute to Nepal’s first elected Prime Minister, B.P. Koirala, during a visit to the B.P. Museum in Sundarijal. This visit, following the presentation of his credentials to President Ramchandra Paudel on November 22, marked Ambassador Bass’s first public engagement in Nepal and underscored the enduring friendship between the two nations, established 64 years ago on June 1, 1960, according to a press release by the Embassy of Israel in Kathmandu.

Ambassador Bass reflected on the visionary leadership of B.P. Koirala, who played an instrumental role in establishing diplomatic ties between Nepal and Israel during Israel’s formative years. “My team and I will work to ensure this friendship lasts forever,” he remarked, emphasizing the significance of the historic bond.

Parasuram Pokharel, Chairperson of the B.P. Museum, warmly welcomed the ambassador and highlighted B.P. Koirala’s role in initiating Nepal-Israel relations. “This museum, named in honor of B.P. Koirala, was once a jail where he was imprisoned for nine years. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ambassador Bass and the Government of Israel for this visit, which we are confident will further strengthen the long-standing ties between Nepal and Israel,” Pokharel stated.

Since Nepal became the first South Asian country to recognize Israel as a state, the two nations have enjoyed a deep and multi-faceted partnership, particularly in areas like agriculture, education, and health. Israel’s development agency, MASHAV, has played a key role in these collaborations.

The enduring relationship, built on the foundations laid by B.P. Koirala and Israel’s first Prime Minister, David Ben-Gurion, continues to thrive through high-level visits and people-to-people connections, reaffirming the shared vision of friendship and cooperation.