KATHMANDU: The fifth meeting of the Nepal-France Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM) was held in Kathmandu as part of the two countries’ ongoing diplomatic engagement.
According to Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the BCM continues to serve as a vital platform to assess bilateral cooperation and identify new avenues for collaboration.
This year’s meeting held added significance as it coincided with the 75th anniversary of the historic first ascent of Annapurna by French climbers Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal.
Delegates from both nations discussed a broad range of topics, including trade, technology, education, culture, and climate action. Emphasis was placed on enhancing cooperation in renewable energy, science, and disaster preparedness—especially early warning systems.
Regional and global developments were also discussed, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to multilateralism.
The Nepali delegation was led by Ganesh Prasad Dhakal, Joint Secretary and Head of the Europe and the Americas Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The French delegation was led by Benoît Guidée, Director for Asia and Oceania at the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
Also present were French Ambassador Virginie Corteval, Deputy Chief of Mission Elsa Calley, and desk officer Hélène Schinkel.
The next round of consultations—the sixth BCM meeting—will take place in Paris at a date to be decided by mutual agreement.
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