What MoUs Will Nepal and Qatar Sign During the Emir’s Visit?

Kathmandu is set to roll out the red carpet for the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, who arrives today following an invitation from President Ramchandra Paudel. Amidst a mixture of excitement and criticism over the declared public holiday in his honor, officials defend the move as a long-standing tradition.

The visit, which is the first of its kind from the Gulf nation that hosts around 400,000 Nepali migrant workers, is set to deepen bilateral ties, particularly through the signing of several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs).

During his state visit, the Emir and his 80-member delegation, which includes 10 current ministers, will engage in talks with Nepali officials led by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal. Following these discussions, five key MoUs are expected to be signed, focusing on areas crucial for mutual benefits.

“The initial proposal included around nine to ten agreements; however, after careful consideration, we have narrowed it down to five essential MoUs,” explained Amrit Rai, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Cabinet has recently approved two of these MoUs, aimed at strengthening cooperation in higher education, scientific research, youth, and sports. The remaining three MoUs cover various other fields. The specifics of these agreements have yet to be disclosed but are anticipated to address mutual interests and enhance cooperation.

Moreover, the visit is expected to boost Nepal’s tourism sector, with officials optimistic about attracting more Qatari tourists. Another significant aspect of the bilateral talks will be the plight of Nepali workers in Qatar. The Nepali government plans to advocate for a new labor agreement and comprehensive insurance coverage for its citizens, extending beyond the current provisions that cover only work hours.

Human Rights Watch has also weighed in, urging both Nepal and Qatar to focus on labor protections during this diplomatic exchange. The New York-based organization emphasizes the importance of concrete, enforceable protections to address the abuses faced by migrant workers in Qatar.

On the economic front, Nepal will seek Qatari investment in hydropower and infrastructure projects, including the construction of a state-of-the-art sports stadium. Additionally, the resolution of the plight of Nepali student Bipin Joshi, held hostage by Hamas since last October, will be a key topic of discussion, with Nepal hoping for Qatar’s mediation efforts.

In a gesture of goodwill, Nepal plans to gift two young elephants to the Qatari monarch. These animals, named Khagendra Prasad and Rudrakali, have been bred in Chitwan and are ready for transfer following approval from CITES in Geneva.

This state visit, blending traditional diplomacy with strategic economic and labor discussions, marks a significant milestone in Nepal-Qatar relations, paving the way for future collaborations.