Kathmandu: The International Relations and Global Diplomacy Dialogue (IRGDD), Nepal, held a high-level strategic consultation with the distinguished Japan Institute of International Affairs (JIIA), one of Japan’s leading institutions dedicated to international affairs, policy research, and global dialogue.
The meeting was graciously hosted by President Kenichiro Sasae, whose leadership continues to position JIIA at the forefront of global policy discourse and intellectual engagement.
The IRGDD delegation was led by Dr. Sarmila Pramila Dhakal, former Ambassador of Nepal to Oman and Spain, and Chairperson of IRGDD. Ambassador Dhakal has been actively advancing Nepal’s role in global diplomacy through dialogue, research, and international partnerships.
During the meeting, Dr. Dhakal emphasized the importance of intellectual diplomacy and the growing role of think tanks in shaping international cooperation in an increasingly complex global environment. She highlighted Nepal’s commitment to democratic strengthening, good governance, and a forward-looking vision driven by its young and dynamic population.
Ambassador Dhakal also underscored the long-standing and deeply rooted friendship between Nepal and Japan, expressing appreciation for Japan’s continued support to Nepal’s development in areas such as infrastructure, education, and capacity building. She noted that such cooperation has significantly contributed to strengthening mutual trust and people-to-people ties between the two countries.
The discussions focused on enhancing collaboration between think tanks as a means to deepen Nepal–Japan engagement. Both sides exchanged views on regional and global developments and explored opportunities for cooperation in areas such as economic diplomacy, renewable energy, digital innovation, and policy research.
Dr. Dhakal further highlighted IRGDD’s role as a platform dedicated to advancing dialogue, fostering research, and promoting cooperation among scholars, policymakers, and institutions. She emphasized her continued efforts to connect global institutions and create meaningful platforms that contribute to peace, stability, and sustainable development.
President Kenichiro Sasae appreciated the initiative of IRGDD and acknowledged the importance of sustained dialogue and knowledge exchange in strengthening international understanding and cooperation.
The meeting concluded with a shared understanding on the importance of continued engagement, intellectual exchange, and collaboration between institutions such as JIIA and IRGDD.
This engagement reflects Ambassador Dhakal’s ongoing commitment to strengthening Nepal’s global diplomatic presence and fostering constructive international partnerships through dialogue and cooperation.
