Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba Meets US Under-Secretary John Bass, Strengthens Bilateral Ties

Nepal’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, currently attending the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, met with Acting US Under-Secretary for Political Affairs, John Bass, to discuss bilateral relations. The meeting, held last night in New York, reaffirmed the strong partnership between the two nations, which has spanned 77 years.

Both officials expressed optimism that this high-level exchange would further consolidate ties between Nepal and the US. Minister Deuba emphasized the importance of the US-Nepal partnership for economic growth, trade, and overall development in Nepal. She highlighted the shared values of democracy, human rights, and freedom that have strengthened relations between the two nations over the decades.

The Minister also acknowledged the continued support from the US in Nepal’s socio-economic development. She particularly mentioned the $659 million, five-year agreement under USAID for improving education in Nepal, running from 2022 to 2027. Dr. Deuba expressed hope for continued US assistance in various development sectors in the future.

The recent Nepal-US Seventh Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) Council Meeting in Kathmandu was also discussed, with Dr. Deuba expressing satisfaction over its progress.

In addition, Dr. Deuba reiterated Nepal’s commitment to transitioning from a Least Developed Country to a middle-income nation by 2026. She stressed the need for continued resource management and economic partnership with the US to ensure this transition is sustainable and meaningful.

The meeting further underscored the enduring ties between Nepal and the US, as both nations continue to work together for mutual benefit and development.