KATHMANDU: Minister for Foreign Affairs, Narayan Prakash Saud, emphasized the necessity of deeper cooperation to find solutions to global or regional problems during the ministerial meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) in Kampala, Uganda.

Addressing the multitude of crises and challenges, including the persistent impact of COVID-19, climate change, conflicts, soaring food and energy prices, inflation, and debt burdens, he stressed the need for global and regional cooperation.

Saud highlighted that NAM, with 120 countries representing around 60% of the world’s population, holds the majority and moral strength to address global issues, advocating for an inclusive global order.

He underscored NAM’s pivotal role in promoting multilateralism, defending the UN Charter and international law, finding peaceful solutions to disputes, reforming global financial architectures, and creating a just global economic order.

The focus should be on achieving SDGs and other Internationally Agreed Development Goals, including the Paris Agreement, ensuring climate justice for vulnerable countries and regions.

Reiterating Nepal’s commitment to NAM’s principles, Saud explained that the Constitution of Nepal embraces NAM’s principles as the basis of its foreign policy.

Nepal conducts an independent, objective, balanced, and nonaligned foreign policy, aspiring to graduate from LDC status and achieve development and prosperity.

As Chair of the LDCs, Nepal anticipates robust cooperation and renewed partnership with development partners and NAM members.

Saud emphasized Nepal’s commitment to making the world peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable for current and future generations.

The 19th NAM Summit in Kampala, Uganda, is scheduled from January 19-20, with Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal leading the Nepali delegation.

The two-day ministerial meeting began preceding the Summit, and Foreign Affairs Minister Saud had left for Uganda on January 15 to participate.