KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said preparations have been nearly completed to launch a new passport system from July 10, aimed at making passport services simpler and more convenient.
As part of the reform, the ministry has introduced a mobile passport service to issue passports in countries where Nepal does not have a diplomatic mission.
The ministry also signed an agreement with the Department of Postal Services on June 30 to expand passport services through district administration offices and area administration offices. The agreement came into effect immediately, and the process has begun to allow citizens to apply for passports from any district in the country.
The ministry further said it coordinated courtesy calls by ambassadors and heads of diplomatic missions based in Kathmandu on Prime Minister Balendra Shah on April 8. It also facilitated a separate meeting between the Prime Minister and ambassadors from the European Union and several other countries on May 26.
Economic diplomacy prioritised
The ministry said it has accorded high priority to economic diplomacy in line with the government’s goal of promoting economic prosperity.
According to the ministry, country-specific diplomatic strategies are being implemented to strengthen bilateral relations, identify areas of mutual benefit and enhance economic cooperation.
It said policy- and programme-based initiatives have been adopted to accelerate economic and social development through development diplomacy. Priority has also been given to promoting exports, attracting foreign investment, mobilising foreign aid, boosting tourism and supporting information technology development in line with Nepal’s long-term national interests.
Nepali diplomatic missions abroad have also been directed to implement programmes focused on economic diplomacy as part of the country-specific strategy, the ministry said.
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