KATHMANDU: Minister for Defense Hari Prasad Upreti emphasized the critical role of the Ministry of Defense in safeguarding the country’s identity and sovereignty.

Addressing the Federalism Strengthening and National Concern Committee meeting today, Minister Upreti underscored the ministry’s direct involvement in key issues such as independence, sovereignty, integrity, and national unity.

The meeting covered various topics including the national security policy, the current national security situation, Defense Ministry activities, future plans, progress on national pride projects, and strategies to address challenges.

Minister Upreti stressed the importance of aligning all ministries and agencies with the National Security Policy of 2075 and emphasized the need for coordinated efforts among political parties to ensure the security and welfare of the nation.

Highlighting the importance of coordination, common understanding, and unity among state entities for national security, Minister Upreti expressed concerns about the perceived weakness in the country’s security situation.

Chief of the Army Staff (CoAS) Prabhu Ram Sharma elaborated on the escalating conflict and tension among global powers, which indirectly impacts smaller nations like Nepal.

He noted that events such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the Israel-Hamas dispute have led to geopolitical instability, affecting regional power balances and stability.

CoAS Sharma also addressed security challenges arising from sensitive geopolitics, open borders, climate change, labor migration, cyber threats, and artificial intelligence.

He emphasized the need for vigilance against activities based on ethnic or religious identity that could disrupt social harmony.

Secretary of the Defense Ministry, Kiran Raj Sharma, expanded the definition of national security to include not only geographical integrity but also political, economic, social, and environmental aspects, as well as the preservation of national values, traditions, and culture.

The committee also received updates on the progress and challenges of the Kathmandu-Terai-Madhesh Expressway (Fast Track) project.

Brigadier General Bikas Pokharel, the project head, reported a physical progress of 33.20 percent and a financial progress of 33.71 percent thus far.