Nepal’s Tapas Adhikari Honored with Global Ambassador Award 2024

Nepal’s former Ambassador to Pakistan, Tapas Adhikari, has been awarded the prestigious Global Ambassador Award 2024 in recognition of his exceptional contributions to enhancing diplomatic, trade, and cultural relations between Nepal and Pakistan.

The award, presented by The Diplomatic Insight, a renowned global public diplomacy institution in Pakistan, acknowledges Ambassador Adhikari’s transformative efforts in strengthening bilateral ties within a short period.

Award Ceremony

The 6th Global Ambassador Awards Ceremony 2024 took place in Islamabad, graced by diplomats, Parliamentarians, government officials, business leaders, academics, media, and civil society members. Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan, Coordinator to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, served as the chief guest.

Dr. Farhat Asif, Chairperson of The Diplomatic Insight Group, highlighted the institution’s commitment to global collaboration and diplomacy while commending Ambassador Adhikari’s outstanding work.

Since Ambassador Adhikari completed his tenure and departed last Saturday, Lok Bahadur Poudel Chhetri, Charge D’Affaires at the Embassy of Nepal in Pakistan, received the award on his behalf.

A Distinguished Career

Ambassador Adhikari, who began his tenure in Islamabad on November 7, 2020, has over two decades of experience in Nepal’s Foreign Service. His career includes postings in New York, Kolkata, Tokyo, and leadership roles in Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including heading the South East Asia and Pacific Division.

Contributions to Nepal-Pakistan Relations

During his tenure in Pakistan, Ambassador Adhikari prioritized economic cooperation and cultural exchange between the two countries. Key achievements include:

• Reviving Nepal’s Tea Exports: Successfully reintroducing Nepalese tea to the Pakistani market after decades, marking a milestone in economic diplomacy.
• Promoting Tourism: Advocated for Gandhara tourism and highlighted connections in Buddhism, Sikhism, and Hinduism, fostering shared cultural heritage.
• Supporting Nepali Students: Provided consular assistance to Nepali students and strengthened ties between the Nepali and Pakistani communities.

Deep Cultural Ties

Fluent in Urdu and Punjabi, Ambassador Adhikari built close relationships with the local community, fostering mutual respect and understanding. His appreciation for Urdu qawwali, ghazals, and the philosophies of Bulleh Shah and Sant Kabir further enriched his cultural connection to Pakistan.

Legacy of Diplomacy

Ambassador Adhikari’s tenure is marked by a deep commitment to advancing Nepal-Pakistan relations and promoting Nepali culture abroad. His receipt of the Global Ambassador Award 2024 underscores his significant contributions to fostering mutual understanding, collaboration, and friendship between the two nations.