Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, met with President Ramchandra Paudel in Nepal to discuss climate change and the significance of the Nepal-UK relationship. The leaders emphasized collaborative efforts in addressing climate vulnerabilities, alongside focusing on youth and women’s empowerment. Major General Gerald Strickland presented the 2024 Brigade of Gurkhas report, reinforcing military alliances between the nations.
On February 4, Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, met with Nepalese President Ramchandra Paudel to discuss pressing issues, notably climate change. The Duke, accompanied by his wife, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, recently concluded a visit to India before arriving in Nepal. During their meeting at Sheetal Niwas, the president’s official residence, both leaders emphasized the necessity for collaborative efforts in combating climate change, particularly as Nepal faces significant vulnerabilities in this area.
President Paudel highlighted Nepal’s active participation in advocating for mountain conservation on global platforms, aiming to draw attention to the impacts of climate change on mountainous regions. The president also noted that visits from members of the British royal family have fostered goodwill between Nepal and the United Kingdom. In this context, Prince Edward expressed a keen interest in understanding Nepal’s climate challenges and the mitigation strategies being employed.
The Duke acknowledged that issues concerning youth and women’s empowerment should remain a priority in future bilateral collaborations. He remarked on the longstanding association with British Gurkha soldiers as a testament to the enduring friendship between the nations. Additionally, Major General Gerald Strickland, Colonel Commandant of the Brigade of Gurkhas, presented the annual report for 2024 to President Paudel during this visit, showcasing military ties.
In response, President Paudel thanked the British government for sharing the Gurkha report and reaffirmed its significance in enhancing the bilateral relationship. He listed the British-Gurkha relationship as vital for strengthening people-to-people connections. Furthermore, the president expressed optimism that productive discussions regarding the concerns of former British Gurkha soldiers are being addressed through established bilateral mechanisms.
This meeting between Prince Edward and President Paudel reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties between Nepal and the UK, particularly in areas of mutual concern such as climate change. As Nepal faces significant environmental challenges, it seeks international support to bolster its advocacy and initiatives in mountain conservation. The historical relationship rooted in the British Gurkha regiments further enhances this partnership, with ongoing dialogues addressing the welfare of Gurkha veterans.
Prince Edward’s visit underscores the importance of international collaboration in tackling climate change and the strengthening of Nepal-UK relations. With a focus on empowerment, military ties, and climate advocacy, both nations seek to foster a collaborative future. As discussions continue regarding Gurkha veterans’ grievances, the dialogue exemplifies meaningful engagement between the two countries.
Original Source: www.newsdrum.in
