KATHMANDU: Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Yogesh Bhattarai and Australian Ambassador to Nepal Peter Budd held a conversation on Monday.

During a meeting at the Singha Durbar-based ministry, Minister Bhattarai requested the Ambassador for commercial air operations between the two countries.

Minister Bhattarai and Ambassador Budd also exchanged views on the impact of COVID-19 pandemic and efforts to stem its spread.

Minister Bhattarai appreciated the assistance rendered for the repatriation of Nepalis living in Australia and thanked the Ambassador.

Expressing his commitment to take initiative with his country’s government for commercial flights, Ambassador Budd praised the Government of Nepal’s support for the repatriation of Australian citizens.