Nepal reaffirms commitment to peacekeeping, deepens defence links with Pakistan

Islamabad: The Embassy of Nepal in Islamabad marked the 263rd Nepali Army Day with a dignified ceremony held at a local hotel, highlighting the growing defence cooperation between Nepal and Pakistan.

Lieutenant General Tabassam Habib of the Pakistan Army attended the event as chief guest. Among other distinguished attendees were Prime Minister’s Coordinator on Tourism Sardar Yasir Ilyas, Director General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Sajjad Haider Khan, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of Turkmenistan Atadjan Movlamov, along with diplomats, military attachés, business leaders, and media representatives.

Ambassador of Nepal to Pakistan, Rita Dhital, and Military Attaché Brigadier General Bhes Bahadur KC warmly received the guests.

In her remarks, Ambassador Dhital paid tribute to the discipline, dedication, and professionalism of the Nepali Army, noting that its legacy continues to inspire future generations. She highlighted Nepal’s significant contributions to United Nations peacekeeping missions, describing the country as one of the leading troop contributors committed to global peace and security.

Emphasizing bilateral relations, she said ties between Nepal and Pakistan are rooted in mutual respect, trust, and cooperation. She noted that defence relations have steadily strengthened through training exchanges, professional engagements, and shared experiences, fostering both institutional collaboration and enduring friendships. She also acknowledged the support of the Pakistan Armed Forces in providing training opportunities to Nepali personnel.

Speaking on the occasion, Brigadier General Bhes Bahadur KC traced the history of the Nepali Army back to 1763, when Prithvi Narayan Shah initiated the unification of modern Nepal. He said that for over two and a half centuries, the army has remained a symbol of bravery, discipline, and resilience, playing a vital role in safeguarding national sovereignty, responding to natural disasters, and contributing to infrastructure development.

He further noted that since 1958, Nepal has been actively participating in UN peacekeeping missions. Both Nepal and Pakistan, he added, consistently rank among the top troop-contributing countries, reflecting their shared commitment to international peace and stability.

Brigadier General KC also paid tribute to the sacrifices of military personnel and acknowledged the vital support of their families.

Referring to recent political developments, he mentioned that a new government has taken office in Nepal following general elections, with a focus on governance reforms and economic transformation. He added that Nepal’s foreign policy aims to promote development through diplomacy, alongside enhanced economic, cultural, and technological cooperation.

Highlighting bilateral prospects, he said Nepal and Pakistan enjoy an enduring friendship with significant potential to expand cooperation across multiple sectors, particularly in defence through long-standing training exchanges that have contributed to the professional development of Nepali officers.

Concluding his remarks, he extended greetings on the Nepali New Year, Vikram Samvat 2083, and noted that April 15 has been declared International Wellness Day by the United Nations General Assembly on Nepal’s proposal. He wished continued health and prosperity for all.

The ceremony witnessed the shared commitment of both countries to regional peace, stability, and strengthened cooperation.