Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has appealed to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi for assistance in securing the release of Bipin Joshi, who has been a hostage of Hamas since October 7, 2023. During their conversation, they also discussed Nepal’s initiative for the Sagarmatha Sambad, an international forum on climate change scheduled for May 2024, highlighting the need for global cooperation in tackling environmental challenges.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli of Nepal recently engaged in a telephone conversation with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, reiterating Nepal’s request for Egypt to assist in the release of Bipin Joshi, a hostage of Hamas militants since October 7, 2023. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that Prime Minister Oli commended Egypt’s mediation role in the Gaza ceasefire and the hostage negotiations between Israel and Hamas, urging continued diplomatic efforts for Joshi’s release.
President Al-Sisi assured Prime Minister Oli that Egypt would prioritize measures to facilitate the release of all remaining hostages, including Joshi, as part of the ongoing hostage exchange initiative. The circumstances surrounding Joshi’s captivity, a Nepali national abducted during a “Learn and Earn” agricultural study program in Israel, remain uncertain, and he was taken captive from Alumim Kibbutz amid a massive assault that resulted in 251 abductions.
In a related dialogue, President Al-Sisi commended Nepal’s efforts to host the Sagarmatha Sambad, an international forum on climate change and environmental sustainability. The Prime Minister extended an invitation to Al-Sisi to attend the dialogue, set to take place in Kathmandu from May 16-18. The inaugural theme of the Sagarmatha Sambad will address “Climate Change, Mountains and the Future of Humanity,” drawing participation from numerous global leaders and experts.
Prime Minister Oli underscored the necessity of global collaboration in tackling climate-related challenges and expressed optimism that Egypt’s involvement would enhance the discussions. The two leaders also deliberated on strengthening bilateral relations, multilateral cooperation, and the potential for high-level official visits between their nations.
In conclusion, Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli actively seeks Egypt’s support for the release of Bipin Joshi, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic negotiations and Egypt’s role in ongoing hostage discussions. Furthermore, the invitation for Egypt’s participation in the upcoming Sagarmatha Sambad highlights the importance of global cooperation in addressing climate issues. This dialogue not only seeks to facilitate Joshi’s release but also aims to strengthen bilateral relations and collaborative efforts on pressing global challenges.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
