KATHMANDU: Jung Bahadur Chauhan, the proposed ambassador to the Russian Federation, has pledged to further enhance bilateral relations between Nepal and Russia.
Presenting his action plan to the Parliamentary Hearing Committee today, Chauhan emphasized that his primary focus will be on attracting Russian investment, increasing the number of tourists from Russia, strengthening diplomatic ties, and addressing the issue of Nepalis recruited into the Russian army.
He outlined his commitment to work on repatriating these Nepalis and resolving any related issues.
Chauhan expressed a desire to move beyond merely maintaining formal relations with Russia.
He said he has plans to attract investment in key sectors such as roads, energy, and industry while also developing cultural relations between the two countries.
Chauhan, one of the 17 ambassadorial candidates nominated by the Cabinet on July 29, noted that Russia has shown significant interest in investing in Nepal’s energy, tourism, agriculture, and sports sectors.
He also aimed to leverage this interest to benefit Nepal while adhering to Nepal’s fundamental non-aligned foreign policy.
He highlighted the potential for adventure tourism, given Russian citizens’ enthusiasm for such activities, and expressed optimism about Nepal capitalizing on this opportunity.
Chauhan also pointed out that while Russia had previously offered various scholarships to Nepali students, these opportunities have decreased in recent years.
He vowed to work on boosting scholarship schemes for Nepali students if confirmed as ambassador.
Chauhan also addressed concerns regarding Nepalis who joined the Russian army.
According to the Nepali Embassy in Russia, 175 Nepalis have returned home, seven were captured as prisoners of war in Ukraine, and 43 have died.
Chauhan expressed confidence that his proficiency in the Russian language would aid in effectively facilitating the repatriation of Nepalis and preventing further recruitment.
He mentioned that DNA tests are underway to identify deceased Nepalis, whose bodies were in poor condition.
The number of Nepalis who traveled to Russia through illegal means remains unconfirmed.
In his presentation, Chauhan reaffirmed his commitment to working in the best interest of Nepal and Nepalis in Russia during his proposed ambassadorial term.
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