EU Delegation Meets PM Oli, Reaffirms Support for Nepal’s Development

A delegation from the European Union, led by Ambassador Veronique Lorenzo, paid a courtesy call on former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in Kathmandu today. The meeting follows the conclusion of the first-ever Sagarmatha Sambaad, held from May 16–18 in the capital.

This marks the first time such a high-level EU delegation has visited Nepal in this capacity, underscoring the growing importance of Nepal-EU relations, which now span over 51 years.

During the meeting, discussions focused on strengthening bilateral ties and deepening EU support in Nepal’s key development sectors, including stability, governance, and economic growth. Prime Minister Oli highlighted Nepal’s transformative journey—from armed conflict and peace talks to the promulgation of the Constitution through the Constituent Assembly—emphasizing that the country is now focused on accelerating development and institutionalizing good governance.

Oli noted that the current coalition government, formed by the CPN (UML) and Nepali Congress, is united in its commitment to drive economic progress and uphold democratic values. He urged the EU delegation to invest in Nepal, particularly in sectors that promote prosperity and job creation.

“There is no turning back from our commitment to a federal democratic republic, which is a product of the people’s long struggle,” Oli said, stressing that political stability and national prosperity remain Nepal’s ultimate goals.

He also reiterated Nepal’s foreign policy stance of “friendship with all, animosity with none,” and emphasized the country’s balanced diplomatic ties with both India and China, along with all other international partners.

Thanking the EU delegation for their participation in Sagarmatha Sambaad, which focused on “Climate Change, Mountains, and the Future of Humanity,” Oli said the event highlighted Nepal’s dedication to addressing global environmental challenges.

He also assured the delegation that Nepal’s transitional justice process would move forward without further delay, as the required legislation has been enacted and two relevant commissions have been formed in consultation with stakeholders.

The EU representatives reaffirmed their continued support to Nepal in sectors such as education, infrastructure, health, energy, IT, and climate resilience, expressing a commitment to collaborate on Nepal’s sustainable socio-economic development.

Also present during the meeting were Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister Bishnu Prasad Rimal and senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.