KATHMANDU: Japanese Ambassador to Nepal, Maeda Toru, paid a courtesy call on Vice-President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav at the latter’s office at Lainchaur on Monday.
During the meeting, they exchanged greetings and discussed a wide range of issues ranging from further strengthening bilateral relations to promoting economic cooperation, culture and tourism and people-to-people level between the two countries, according to the Office of Vice-President.
On the occasion, VP Yadav noted that Nepal and Japan share a long-standing relationship rooted in history and culture.
Yadav highlighted the age-old friendship between the two countries since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1956 and termed the ongoing celebration of the 70th anniversary of bilateral ties an ‘important milestone’.
He described Japan as a trusted development partner of Nepal and expressed optimism for expanded cooperation, investment and support as Nepal prepares to graduate from the Least Developed Country category by 2026.
The Vice-President mentioned that there is a huge potential of expanding bilateral trade and attracting foreign investment from Japan to Nepal and thus reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to safeguarding interests of Japanese investors considering various legal and institutional reforms.
On a different note, VP Yadav said that Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, serves as a strong bridge between Nepal and Japan, and expressed his optimism that the number of Japanese tourists visiting Nepal will increase in the future.
He argued that the presence of nearly 300,000 Nepalis in Japan is a notable aspect of bilateral relations.
On the occasion, he expressed gratitude for the goodwill and understanding of the Japanese government, hoping for continued cooperation in the future.
Reciprocating to VP Yadav, recently appointed Japanese envoy to Nepal, Maeda Toru pledged that Japan would continue its support for Nepal’s development efforts.
He also acknowledged the positive contributions of Nepali community in Japan.
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