Foreign Minister Rana Holds Bilateral Talks with Ukrainian, Moldovan Counterparts in New Delhi

Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba met with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha in New Delhi today on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue 2025. The meeting focused on strengthening Nepal-Ukraine relations and enhancing cooperation, according to Minister Rana’s Private Secretariat.

Dr. Rana urged Ukraine to facilitate the release and repatriation of seven Nepali citizens held as prisoners of war by Ukrainian forces. She stated that while Nepal does not permit its citizens to join the Russian army, some Nepalis were reportedly recruited through human traffickers. In response, Sybiha assured that Ukraine would release the Nepali prisoners after completing the necessary legal procedures.

Additionally, Dr. Rana sought Ukraine’s support for Nepal’s candidacy for membership in the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2027–2029 term. The two nations also signed an agreement granting visa exemptions for holders of diplomatic, official, and service passports.

Later in the day, Dr. Rana met with Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi. Their discussions focused on strengthening Nepal-Moldova relations and expanding bilateral cooperation.

Dr. Rana highlighted Nepal’s vulnerability to climate change and called for collaborative efforts to address the issue. She also briefed her Moldovan counterpart on Nepal’s progress toward graduating from a least developed country to a developing nation by 2026, seeking Moldova’s support in the process.

She further requested Moldova’s backing for Nepal’s candidacy for a seat on the United Nations Security Council. The two leaders explored potential joint investment opportunities in trade, tourism, hydropower, and other sectors.

Expressing optimism about Popșoi’s upcoming visit to Nepal, Dr. Rana said she hoped it would further strengthen bilateral ties and open new avenues for cooperation.