British Gurkha Commander Meets with Nepali President Ramchandra Paudel

Major General Gerald M. Strickland, Commander of the British Army's Gurkha Brigade, and his delegation, including David J. Robinson, paid a courtesy call on President Ramchandra Paudel during their visit to Nepal. The delegation met with President Paudel at the President's Office, Shital Niwas, on Monday.

During the event, attended by the British Ambassador to Nepal, Major General Strickland also presented the annual report of the 'Brigade of Gurkhas' for 2025. Discussions were held regarding the existing relations between the two countries, mutual interests, and concerns, informed Ritesh Kumar Shakya, spokesperson for the President's Office.

On the occasion, President Paudel noted that Nepal and the United Kingdom have been cooperating on issues related to development, human welfare, and peace in international forums, and that both nations share a common view on establishing world peace through the United Nations peacekeeping force.

He mentioned the centuries-old close relationship between Nepal and the United Kingdom, expressing gratitude for the continuous contribution made by the UK, a significant development partner, to Nepal's development.

He expressed happiness that the British Gurkhas have further strengthened bilateral relations between Nepal and Britain through their commendable work, and the President's Secretariat stated that they believe the presence of Nepalis in the United Kingdom further consolidates the people-to-people ties between the two countries.

He stated that discussions are ongoing at the diplomatic level to address some legitimate grievances of former British Gurkhas, and he believes it would be appropriate to bring this matter to a conclusion soon through a bilateral mechanism.

The President thanked the UK government for presenting the annual report of the Gurkha Brigade for 2025 and stated that the relevant bodies would study the report as necessary.

On the occasion, British Army Major General Gerald M. Strickland praised the British Gurkha soldiers, stating they are always at the forefront. He mentioned that he tells the youth recruited into the British Gurkhas that they are the sons and daughters of Nepal, and noted that the British people express affection and respect towards the Gurkha Nepalis.