Embassy of Nepal Successfully Ships Illegally Exported Wooden Artifacts Back to Kathmandu

In a remarkable demonstration of collaborative efforts, the Embassy of Nepal has triumphantly overseen the shipping of 40 valuable wooden artifacts from the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) division of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) back to their rightful home in Nepal. The artifacts, which had been illicitly exported, were seized by the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in Hawaii back in August 2010.

On the auspicious day of August 8, 2023, the Embassy of Nepal orchestrated the secure dispatch of these culturally significant treasures, in association with Qatar Airways. The artifacts embarked on their journey aboard Qatar Airways, destined for the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, Nepal. Their arrival is eagerly anticipated on August 12, 2023.

The Department of Archaeology of the Government of Nepal stands ready to receive and safeguard these precious items, showcasing the nation’s commitment to preserving its historical and artistic heritage. The repatriated collection includes 39 exquisitely engraved and painted wooden panels, as well as a meticulously carved wooden shrine, each a testament to Nepal’s rich cultural legacy.

 

On Aug 8, 2023, the Embassy of Nepal sent 40 wooden artifacts received from the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) to Nepal. Qatar Airways Cargo sponsored the shipping of these artifacts. The Department of Archaeology will receive these artifacts in Kathmandu on Aug 12, 2023. pic.twitter.com/udJeQwlz4S

— Embassy of Nepal, Washington, D.C. (@nepalembassyusa) August 10, 2023

This remarkable achievement is the culmination of years of diplomatic and collaborative efforts between the Embassy of Nepal and various agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations, the Department of State, and US Customs and Border Protection. The Government of Nepal officially requested the return of these artifacts from the United States in 2011, setting in motion a journey that has finally led to their triumphant homecoming.

The Embassy of Nepal, in its unwavering dedication to the restoration of the nation’s heritage, expressed its heartfelt gratitude to Qatar Airways Cargo for its pivotal role in facilitating this momentous repatriation. The successful shipping of the artifacts from Dulles International Airport (IAD), Washington D.C., to the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu, was made possible through the generous support of Qatar Airways Cargo.

Mr. Rishi Punnakhar Dhakal, Honorary Consul General of Nepal in San Diego, California, was commended for his instrumental efforts in coordinating with Qatar Airways Cargo, ensuring the smooth execution of this significant endeavor.

In a touching display of cultural pride and diplomacy, the Embassy of Nepal had previously showcased four of the meticulously restored artifacts during a handover ceremony on May 11, 2023. The public had another opportunity to marvel at these treasures during a Nepal tourism promotion program hosted by the Embassy on August 1, 2023.

This milestone marks the latest achievement in the Embassy’s ongoing commitment to repatriating Nepal’s lost and stolen cultural treasures. Since April 2022, the Embassy has successfully returned an impressive total of 47 artifacts of historical, cultural, and religious importance to Nepal. This tireless effort signifies Nepal’s resolute determination to safeguard its heritage and restore these cherished artifacts to their rightful place within the nation’s cultural tapestry.