Gurkhas: Greatest Symbol of UK-Nepal Friendship, Says British PM

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak highlighted the deep ties between the UK and Nepal, emphasizing the role of the Gurkhas as the greatest symbol of this friendship. Speaking at a reception at Number 10 Downing Street on May 20 to commemorate the centenary of the UK-Nepal Treaty of Friendship, Sunak reflected on various aspects that unite the two nations, from His Majesty King Charles trekking in the Himalayas as a young Prince to robust academic collaborations and the significant contributions of the Nepali diaspora in the UK.

In his remarks, Prime Minister Sunak paid tribute to the Gurkhas, lauding their courage, loyalty, and sacrifice. He described their service as a testament to the unique bond between the UK and Nepal, reaffirming that these ties will continue to endure. The event was detailed in a media note issued by the British Embassy in Kathmandu today.

Sunak also addressed the joint efforts of the UK and Nepal in combating climate change, noting that the UK’s support of 400 million pounds aims to help Nepal leverage its strengths, including its human resources and potential for clean energy, to tackle the challenges posed by natural disasters.

The reception saw the presence of notable figures in the UK-Nepal relationship, including parliamentarians, Nepali actor Manisha Koirala, Gurkhas, mountaineers like Hari Budha, civil society members, and members of the Nepali diaspora.

Nepali Ambassador to the UK, Gyan Chandra Acharya, also spoke at the event, sharing that Nepal had celebrated the treaty in the historic room at Singh Durbar State Hall, where it was originally signed a century ago. He remarked, “We consider this a fitting conclusion to our centennial celebrations, being the first of its kind for Nepal at the official residence of the British Prime Minister.”

Additionally, UK Minister of State for Indo-Pacific Anne-Marie Trevelyan addressed the gathering, where a copy of the original treaty signed at Singha Durbar in Kathmandu was displayed.