Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal held talks with his Japanese counterpart, MOTEGI Toshimitsu, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.
According to a press statement issued by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Minister Motegi expressed deep sorrow over the immense damage caused by the recent devastating disaster. He offered his sincere condolences to the victims and conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families and all those affected.
Furthermore, Minister Motegi conveyed Japan’s commitment to providing support ranging from emergency response to medium- and long-term recovery to help bolster Nepal’s self-reliant efforts. He outlined Japan’s assistance package, which includes the provision of emergency relief supplies, an Emergency Grant of USD $3 million channelled through international and other organizations, the dispatch of an expert identification team, and the supply of DNA testing equipment.
He affirmed that Japan stands with Nepal and intends to do everything possible for its long-standing friend.
In response, Minister Khanal expressed deep gratitude for the message of sympathy, solidarity, and aid extended by the Government and people of Japan. He assured that Nepalese authorities are sparing no effort in search and rescue operations for unaccounted foreign nationals, including Japanese citizens.
Minister Motegi noted that this year marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Nepal, highlighting Japan’s consistent support for the consolidation of democracy and nation-building in Nepal. He expressed hope that the upcoming “Nepal-Japan Festival” in November would further deepen the amicable bond between the two nations.
Additionally, Minister Motegi reaffirmed Japan’s intent to support Nepal’s development by steadily pursuing initiatives with the Shah administration. These include infrastructure projects such as the JICA-backed Nagdhunga Tunnel, alongside efforts to foster domestic industries and improve high-quality education to drive economic growth.
In response, Minister Khanal expressed deep appreciation for Japan’s long-standing cooperation and reaffirmed Nepal’s desire to further strengthen bilateral relations on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic ties.
