Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Ikuina Akiko, engaged in high-level discussions with Nepali leaders on Wednesday, underscoring Japan’s enduring partnership with Nepal during her visit for the ongoing Sagarmatha Sambad.
Akiko first paid a courtesy call on Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, where bilateral cooperation took center stage. Dr. Deuba lauded Japan’s consistent assistance, particularly its grant-funded reconstruction of the Sindhuli-Bardibas road—a critical infrastructure project recently damaged by monsoon rains. She emphasized Nepal’s gratitude for Japan’s role in advancing the nation’s socio-economic development and urged Tokyo to amplify Nepal’s calls for climate justice on global platforms.
Later, Akiko met with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli at his official residence in Baluwatar. PM Oli highlighted the shared urgency of addressing climate change, noting that the Sagarmatha Sambad—a forum focused on collaborative solutions to global crises—reflects Nepal’s commitment to multilateral action. He stressed the value of Japanese expertise in disaster-resilient infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and adaptive construction, areas vital for Nepal’s mountainous terrain.
In both meetings, Akiko reiterated Japan’s pledge to bolster Nepal’s priorities, including economic growth, education, human resource development, and environmental conservation. She affirmed ongoing support for post-disaster recovery efforts, acknowledging Nepal’s vulnerability to climate-induced challenges.
The discussions also touched on the symbolic significance of the Sagarmatha Sambad, with PM Oli and Dr. Deuba both thanking Japan for its active participation. Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Maeda Toru and senior Nepali Foreign Ministry officials attended the meeting with the Prime Minister.
The dialogue reinforced the two nations’ shared vision for climate resilience and equitable development, with Japan positioning itself as a steadfast ally in Nepal’s journey toward sustainable progress.
