Change in Leadership at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Foreign Secretary Bharat Raj Poudyal has officially retired after a distinguished 37-year-long civil service career. Announcing his retirement on social media, Poudyal expressed gratitude for his years in public service.

I’m leaving with all positive feelings, and with humility, anticipate continued goodwill as I prepare for a new role.

— Bharat Paudyal (@PaudyalBR) December 5, 2023

“I have taken retirement from my 37-year-long civil service career today,” shared Poudyal, marking the end of his tenure as the Foreign Secretary.

Following his retirement, the government has put forth Poudyal’s name for the position of the Nepali Ambassador to Canada. The recommendation has received approval from the parliamentary hearing committee, solidifying his potential diplomatic role in Canada.

With the departure of Foreign Secretary Poudyal, the responsibility of overseeing the affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been temporarily bestowed upon Sewa Lamsal, a senior Joint Secretary within the ministry. Lamsal will serve as the acting Foreign Secretary during this transitional period.

The retirement of Bharat Raj Poudyal marks the end of an era in Nepal’s foreign service, while the appointment of an acting Foreign Secretary ensures continuity in the ministry’s leadership during this period of transition. The government’s decision to nominate Poudyal as the Ambassador to Canada reflects its trust in his capabilities for diplomatic representation on the international stage.