Kathmandu: H.E. Motegi Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a Foreign Ministers’ meeting with Hon. Shisir Khanal, Minister for Foreign Affairs, on September 21.
Minister Motegi expressed his deep sorrow over the immense damage caused by the devastating disaster in Nepal, once again offering his sincere condolences to the victims and conveying his heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families and those affected by the disaster. He also paid heartfelt tribute for tireless efforts made by the Government of Nepal to assist those affected by the disaster.
Furthermore, Minister Motegi conveyed Japan’s intention to provide support ranging from the emergency phase through to the medium- and long-term stages in order to bolster Nepal’s self-reliant efforts. He outlined Japan’s assistance, which includes the provision of emergency relief supplies, an Emergency Grant of USD3 million through international and other organizations, as well as the dispatch of a team of experts to assist identification, and the provision of DNA testing equipment. He stated that Japan stands with Nepal and intends to do everything possible for Nepal, a long-standing friend.
In response, Minister Khanal expressed his deep gratitude for the message of sympathy and expression of solidarity from the Government and people of Japan as well as its support toward the damages caused by the flash flood. He also stated that Nepal authorities spare no efforts to keep search and rescue of the foreign nationals including Japanese who remain unaccounted for.
Minister Motegi also stated that this year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Nepal, and that Japan has consistently supported the consolidation of democracy and nation-building in Nepal. He expressed his expectation that the commemorative event, the “Nepal-Japan Festival,” to be held in November in Nepal, would lead to further deepening of amicable relations between the two countries.
Furthermore, Minister Motegi stated that Japan intends to continue supporting Nepal’s efforts by steadily implementing initiatives with the Shah administration, including infrastructure development such as the Nagdunga Tunnel project by JICA, as well as the fostering of domestic industries and high-quality education to ensure economic growth. In response, Minister Khanal expressed his appreciation for the long-standing cooperation extended by Government and people of Japan toward Nepal and stated his desire to further develop bilateral relations at the juncture of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Nepal.
