Pakistan Pledges Continued Support to Strengthen Ties with Nepal: Ambassador Hashmi

Pakistan is committed to further strengthening its cooperation and understanding with Nepal, reaffirmed Abrar H Hashmi, the Ambassador of Pakistan to Nepal, during a reception marking the 78th Independence Day of Pakistan. The event, held on Wednesday evening, featured Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav as the chief guest.

Ambassador Hashmi emphasized Pakistan's ongoing support for Nepal, particularly in the areas of education, defense, banking, health, and other technical sectors. "Our collaboration is yielding positive results, with over 7,000 alumni, including doctors, engineers, journalists, bankers, pilots, and defense personnel, contributing to Nepal's development," he noted.

The ambassador also addressed the shared vulnerabilities of Pakistan and Nepal to climate change, highlighting the ecological fragility of the Himalayas. "Glaciers are melting at an accelerated pace, leading to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods. In the medium to long term, this could result in water and food shortages," he warned, stressing the need to address these challenges for the welfare of the communities and sustainable development of the region.

Ambassador Hashmi underscored Pakistan's commitment to peaceful and cordial relations with all countries, noting its contributions to global peace through diplomatic efforts and UN peacekeeping missions. "Nepal is a close friend of Pakistan. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1960, mutual respect, trust, cordiality, and understanding have remained the hallmark of our relationship," he added.

He further highlighted the unique geographical and cultural ties between Pakistan and Nepal, from the peaks of Everest to K2, and the shared Gandhara heritage. "As partners, we work together at regional and multilateral forums, especially at the UN and SAARC," he said.

Pakistan's approach to its partnership with Nepal is grounded in a desire for mutual benefit, Ambassador Hashmi noted. He emphasized the importance of the numerous agreements signed between the two countries, including those related to trade, air services, culture, tourism, and agriculture, supported by various bilateral mechanisms.

The reception was attended by several distinguished guests, including Deputy Speaker Indira Rana, former Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, former ministers, parliamentarians, diplomatic mission chiefs in Kathmandu, high-ranking government officials, entrepreneurs, journalists, and other prominent figures. A documentary showcasing Pakistan's progress in socio-economic, technological, and defense sectors was also screened during the event.