Muscat: Nepal is eager to deepen its collaboration with Oman across various sectors including trade, investment, economic cooperation, agriculture, energy, tourism, labor, foreign employment, culture, education, and direct air connectivity.
In an interview with the Times of Oman, the Foreign Secretary of Nepal, Sewa Lamsal, disclosed that discussions on bilateral relations were held with numerous key officials in Oman, during which a strong commitment to further enhance partnership in areas of mutual interest was expressed.
She further emphasized the importance of joint efforts to seize economic opportunities that benefit both nations and to foster greater opportunities for people-to-people engagement within the Sultanate of Oman.
During her visit, she characterized Muscat as a city that is not only beautiful but also well-planned, peaceful, and developed. She noted the significant impact of Oman's visionary leadership and expressed a keen interest in learning more about Oman Vision 2040.
She also highlighted that Nepal possesses its own vision and roadmap for the country's future, acknowledging the need for more effective implementation of these plans to meet the high expectations of the global community.
Regarding the bilateral relationship between Nepal and Oman, she described it as one of the most excellent, built on a foundation of utmost friendship and goodwill. There are no issues, and the relationship is characterized by strong support and happiness among the people of Oman, who are employed there.
She also mentioned that this is the inaugural political and bilateral consultation meeting between the two countries, marking the beginning of a promising relationship. She expressed her satisfaction with being part of this historic meeting and highlighted the anticipation for future high-level visits.
Additionally, she expressed a desire for direct connectivity between the two nations, noting that while direct flights were previously available, they were suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
"During the course of the meeting, I have formally requested the Omani authorities to reinstate the flight and have respectfully requested the establishment of the Omani Embassy in Kathmandu. This initiative is crucial in further solidifying our bilateral relations," she stated.
She emphasized the importance of Omani citizens to delve deeper into Nepal's offerings. "It is imperative for them to acquaint themselves with the unique beauty and cultural prominence of Nepal, as our landscape is distinct from any other nation."
Throughout her visit, she had the opportunity to explore the Muttrah Souq, the Grand Mosque, and the National Museum. "I also had the pleasure of trying Omani biriyani, which was exceptionally delicious," she shared.
The Foreign Secretary Sewa Lamsal extended his gratitude to the Omani Government for facilitating employment opportunities for over 21,000 Nepalis. He also highlighted the importance of creating more avenues for collaboration, particularly in the private sector. He encouraged Omani enterprises to consider investment opportunities in Nepal, focusing on hydropower, tourism, and the green hydrogen sector.
Dornath Aryal, the Ambassador of Nepal to Oman, mentioned that the Nepal-Oman Bilateral Consultations Mechanism was inaugurated in 2017. He also announced that the next meeting between the two nations will take place in Kathmandu, on dates that are mutually agreeable.
