KATHMANDU: United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres lauded Nepal as a dedicated promoter of peace and a stalwart of multilateralism.

Addressing a joint session of the Federal Parliament in Kathmandu on Tuesday, he expressed his enduring admiration for Nepal’s rich culture, civilization, and warm hospitality during his second visit to the country.

Guteress said, “As geopolitical tensions rise, global divisions are becoming deeper and more dangerous. Smaller countries fear becoming collateral damage in competition between great powers. And climate catastrophe is accelerating with a deadly force.”

He also viewed Nepal is a promoter of peace, a champion of multilateralism, and a staunch supporter of sustainable development and climate action.

“Nestled between two great powers, you have forged your own path to safeguard your sovereignty and independence. And your journey over the past twenty years has been wonderful to see,” he said.

A new republic with a new Constitution has the UN Charter at its heart, he said adding that it was quick to embrace the Sustainable Development Goals, and is making progress on many of them.

“Your country has successfully calmed the storms of conflict and moved from war to peace. A process the United Nations has been proud to support,” he shared.

Nepal’s dynamic story of progress continues today, the UN Secretary General viewed, adding that Nepal’s graduation from Least Developed Country status is imminent.

The UN is committed to supporting a smooth transition, he vowed.

During his address to the joint meeting of both houses of the Federal Parliament on Tuesday, Secretary-General Guterres reminisced about his initial trip to Nepal in 1978.

He emphasized that Nepal has always held a special place in his heart, highlighting how the message of peace from Lumbini has resonated deeply with him.

Despite his appreciation for Nepal, he did not shy away from condemning the recent tragic events in Israel.

He expressed deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives in a conflict in which he was not directly involved, reiterating the importance of peace for all nations.

He offered his heartfelt condolences to the family of the Nepali students who tragically lost his life in the recent Hamas attack in Israel.

“Thousands of miles away, Nepal has also been affected by the recent violence in Israel. I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of the Nepali students who lost their lives in the militant attack,” he said.

Secretary-General Guterres further said, “My thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time. Additionally, I hope for the safe return of Bipin Joshi, who is currently missing.”

Following Secretary-General Guterres’ speech, the parliament meeting passed a resolution extending gratitude to the Secretary-General.