Ambassadors’ Club and IRGDD Inaugurated – The Diplomat Nepal Magazine Launched

Kathmandu: The inaugural ceremony of the Ambassadors’ Club and the International Relations and Global Diplomacy Dialogue (IRGDD) was held in Kathmandu on Sunday. At the same event, Nepal’s first diplomatic magazine and media platform, The Diplomat Nepal, was also launched.

The chief guest of the event, former Prime Minister Dr. Baburam Bhattarai, said the inauguration of the International Relations and Global Diplomacy Dialogue (IRGDD), the Ambassadors’ Club, and the launch of a dedicated The Diplomat Nepal magazine represent a crucial moment in Nepal’s evolving global role.

He shared that the global order is beginning to change rapidly and that Nepal must no longer remain on the sidelines. “This initiative is a timely and necessary response at a moment when the world demands more dialogue and decisive action—rooted in peace, proactive sovereignty, and meaningful contributions to justice,” he added.

Dr. Bhattarai explained that the IRGDD, the Ambassadors’ Club, and The Diplomat Nepal provide exactly the kind of “soft space” where trust is fostered and foreign policy is influenced with vision and inclusivity. He said, “These platforms address critical issues such as labor rights, climate change, and the empowerment of women and youth—not simply reacting to global intimacies, but actively shaping Nepal’s future.”

During the event, President of the Ambassadors’ Club and IRGDD Dr. Sarmila Parajuli Dhakal stated that this is not just the launch of an initiative — it is the beginning of a journey. “A journey that takes Nepal to the heart of global conversations. Nepal’s voice, rooted in peace and resilience, is stepping onto the world stage. In the global arena, Nepal carries the voice of hope, of clarity, and of courage. Small nations must rise — not in conflict, but in conviction. We must speak with clarity, engage with compassion, and continue forward with courage. In the face of global change, we must help shape it — not just react to it,” she said.

Former Ambassador Dr. Dhakal said, “We envision a circle of trust where ideas flow freely and voices, regardless of size, are heard equally. I am proud to announce that all ambassadors, heads of mission, and members of the diplomatic community are part of this shared vision. The IRGDD will ensure Nepal’s insights and ideals are shared with the world,” she said.

“This moment highlights our unwavering commitment to peace, dialogue, and shared progress. As diplomats, Nepal must be a clear and confident voice—not just for itself, but for all who strive for equity and understanding.” Dr. Dhakal added, “Diplomacy must be inclusive. It does not follow colors, borders, or status. It follows values. We speak with one voice.

And with this promise, we let Nepal rise beyond maps — to become a voice for the world.”

Former Foreign Minister Ramesh Nath Pandey said every decision Nepal makes must address the hard questions — questions tied not just to policy, but to our identity, history, and survival. He added that today, Nepal’s most important task is to redefine that presence — not through passivity, but through strategic engagement, multilateral partnerships, and a clear diplomatic voice. “The IRGDD is the answer to that challenge — a platform where Nepal does not wait to be spoken for, but speaks with conviction, purpose, and principle,” he said.

Moreover, former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sujata Koirala said the IRGDD and the Ambassadors’ Club are “timely and transformative” platforms, emphasizing their importance in a world grappling with interconnected crises and increasing climate vulnerability. She stressed that for Nepal, initiatives like this are crucial — not only to navigate global challenges but also to amplify its role in international diplomacy. Citing Nepal’s longstanding contributions to UN peacekeeping, global advocacy, and principled foreign policy, Koirala highlighted that Nepal’s ancient cultural heritage positions it to offer unique moral and diplomatic leadership on the world stage.

Acting President of Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), DP Aryal, mentioned that these initiatives will help improve the complex diplomatic practices taking place in Nepal and the world. “At present, when the world is evolving at a fast pace with the challenges of the climate crisis, artificial intelligence, and migration, traditional practices should be replaced by new ones. These initiatives will play a major role in bringing and promoting these new ideas,” he said.

Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of Egypt to Nepal, Noha Hamdy Ahmed, gave a vote of thanks on behalf of the organizing committee. She emphasized that the IRGDD Ambassadors’ Club offers a vital platform to enhance international cooperation, allowing diplomats to share experiences and knowledge while promoting both bilateral and multilateral diplomacy. Highlighting Nepal’s diplomatic tradition, she praised Nepali diplomacy for its professionalism, warmth, and hospitality—qualities that have helped Nepal play an important role in promoting peace and addressing global challenges in an equitable and just manner. Her remarks underscored the significance of such initiatives in strengthening Nepal’s voice and partnerships in the international community.

UN Resident Coordinator to Nepal, Hana Singer Hamdy, said, “After days of devastation, it’s time to celebrate — and we bring you not one, not two, but three reasons to be inspired. Three powerful stories of creativity. Three bold glimpses into the future. This issue is rich with thoughtful articles and beautiful photographs — a visual and intellectual celebration of resilience and vision,” she said.

“The cover story dives into the heart of global diplomacy, with a special emphasis on multilateralism in the context of climate change and diaspora engagement. It carries the energy and momentum of Sagarmatha Sambaad — a space where ideas flow freely, and voices, especially from the Global South, are amplified.”

Similarly, during the event, The Diplomat Nepal magazine was jointly unveiled by the chief guest Dr. Bhattarai; Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak; former Deputy Prime Minister Koirala; former Foreign Minister Pandey; President of the Ambassadors’ Club and IRGDD; Minister for Forest and Environment Ain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri; Minister for Labor, Employment and Social Security Sarad Singh Bhandari; Minister for Youth and Sports Teju Lal Chaudhary; Acting Chair of RSP Aryal; publisher of The Diplomat Nepal Bimal Dhakal; Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of Egypt to Nepal, Ahmed; and UN Resident Coordinator to Nepal, Hamdy. To make the new initiative, they jointly cut the cake along with other ambassadors and guests.