US Ambassador to Nepal Randy Berry believes it’s been an honor of a lifetime to serve as U.S. Ambassador to Nepal. He believes from the provinces down to small communities, Nepalis have a hand in shaping Nepal’s trajectory for years to come. In a not very serious conversation with Khabarhub’s Ishwar Dev Khanal, Ambassador Berry says he has had the privilege to walk in Nepal and meet the incredible men and women of this country, that is something which he believes will cherish for the rest of his life. Excerpts:
It’s been over two years since you have been in Nepal. How is it treating you?
It’s been an honor of a lifetime to serve as U.S. Ambassador to Nepal. I’ve never had a bad day in Nepal. This country, its history, its people, the delicious food, and its diverse culture are fascinating.
I’m proud to say I’ve now spent more time in Nepal than any other country in the world except my own. My only regret is that I haven’t seen enough of Nepal outside the Kathmandu Valley for the past year, due to COVID restrictions.
I would like to use the term ‘milestone’ as it has been more than 72 years of Nepal-U.S. diplomatic relations. How do you feel and how do you plan to move ahead?
There is so much to celebrate in terms of the U.S. – Nepali relationship. Whether it’s helping to eradicate malaria to earthquake reconstruction; or supporting Nepali farmers, building schools, and maternal health initiatives through USAID programs and the hundreds of Peace Corps volunteers that have served here during the past 50 years – at the heart of our partnership is friendship.
America is stronger when Nepal is stronger. Americans prosper when Nepalis prosper and Nepal’s sovereignty is resilient and resolute. This is at the heart of everything our mission does, day in and day out. I am very optimistic over the long term about our relationship, and about Nepal’s future.
How was your experience when you first came to Nepal?
I first came to Nepal, as many do, as a young traveler who was excited to see all that Nepal had to offer. As soon as I arrived, it was abundantly clear to me why Americans have a tremendous love for Nepal and its people.
I was struck then, as I continue to be today, by Nepal’s staggering diversity in every way: rolling plains and hills, incredible wildlife, the majestic Himalayas; varied ethnic groups, and over 129 languages.
Yet, amidst this teeming backdrop was one constant: every day, no matter where I went or whom I talked to, I experienced the world-famous warmth and hospitality of the Nepali people.
I’ve often said that the mountains and natural beauty often bring visitors to Nepal for the first time, but what brings them back again, and again, and again, are the people, the culture, and the hospitality.
Which places did you visit, where did you stay, and what foods did you try?
I love the opportunities to travel around the country. You cannot truly understand Nepal if you spend all your time in Kathmandu.
When I first came to Nepal, I visited all of the cultural sights in the Kathmandu Valley and a few additional days in Pokhara.
Since then, I’ve had the privilege of exploring the breadth of the country. Some of my favorite trips include learning about the Mithila culture in Janakpur, seeing the Himalayas from Pokhara, and appreciating the vast landscapes and cultural uniqueness of Mustang.
When did you come to Nepal for official work? Did you choose Nepal or was it chosen for you by your office?
I came to Nepal as the Deputy Chief of Mission, way back in 2007. I wanted the position because this is such a fascinating country in terms of its people, its history, and its geography.
It was also a time of great significance in Nepal’s post-conflict history, and I wanted to be part of directing US support for democratic institutions, human rights, and equality.
What are the significant changes you noticed when you came as the US Ambassador versus when you came as a young tourist?
Well, the changes have been huge, and quite admirable. What Nepal has managed to accomplish, in a very short period of time, is remarkable.
I lived here more than ten years ago, including during the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement.
Within a generation, Nepal has moved through massive political transitions that some countries take centuries to go through.
And as I’ve traveled across this great country, I’ve seen firsthand the profound effect federalism has made – and will continue to make – on Nepal’s future.
From the provinces down to small communities, Nepalis have a hand in shaping Nepal’s trajectory for years to come.
Your video of cooking ‘khasiko maasu’ this Dashain was amazing. What inspired you to try it? Do you know how to cook other Nepali foods too?
Thank you! That was my first time trying that recipe and I wanted to try it because of the holiday. I find that as a diplomat, it’s so important to understand the culture of the country you’re serving in, and there’s no greater way to do that than by learning the cuisine.
That said, I think I have a lot more to learn in terms of learning to cook Nepali food. I’d love to learn to cook sel roti- although it looks quite complicated!
Where do you go to in Kathmandu for a short break, apart from Bouddha?
COVID -19 has obviously halted a lot of travel. But I’ve loved traveling outside the Valley. Of course, I have favorite things to do in Kathmandu too I love wandering through Hanuman Dhoka and visiting the historic sites in Patan and Bhaktapur. I can’t wait until we can all enjoy those things again.
Have you ever walked in Nepal as an ordinary man?
I’m an ordinary man with an extraordinary career that has afforded me the unparalleled opportunity to deepen the bonds between the two countries I love.
I am one of those very lucky people who can honestly say they’re doing their dream job. Representing the United States as an Ambassador, in any country, is the highest calling for an American diplomat.
To be able to say I’ve had the privilege to walk in Nepal and meet the incredible men and women of this country, that is something I will cherish for the rest of my life.
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