Nepal's PM Karki Expresses Concern Over West Asia Developments in Call with Qatari Counterpart

Kathmandu. Prime Minister Sushila Karki held a telephone conversation with her Qatari counterpart, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani.

Prime Minister Karki called Al-Thani on Thursday afternoon and expressed concern over the recent developments in the West Asia region.

Prime Minister Karki extended heartfelt thanks on behalf of the Government of Nepal and the Nepali people for providing safety and protection to the 360,000 Nepali citizens residing in Qatar.

She stated, "Currently, about 360,000 Nepali citizens are residing and working in the State of Qatar. I am extremely happy to hear that they are safe and well taken care of. We express our sincere gratitude to you and your government for taking care of our people."

Prime Minister Karki mentioned that Nepal is closely monitoring the developments in the West Asia region and stated Nepal's position that all concerned parties should remain restrained, avoid further escalation of conflict, and ensure the security of citizens.

She emphasized that all nations must respect and adhere to the UN Charter, international law, the Geneva Conventions, and humanitarian law.

Stating that war can never be an alternative to peace under any pretext, Prime Minister Karki said that lasting peace can only be ensured through dialogue and diplomacy.

She also expressed confidence that the relationship between the two countries would be further strengthened in the coming days through high-level visits, economic and cultural cooperation, and people-to-people relations.

During the telephone conversation, Prime Minister Karki expressed solidarity with Qatar regarding the situation and voiced deep concern over the attack on Qatari sovereign territory, especially non-military areas. She also expressed confidence that Qatar would be able to face the current situation with a constructive role.

Qatari Prime Minister Al-Thani highly praised the harmonious, deep, and friendly relations between Nepal and Qatar. He mentioned the significant contribution made by Nepali citizens in Qatar and stated that the government would provide them with the same security and protection as Qatari citizens in the current situation.

Describing the current situation as unfortunate, he informed that his country is only striving for the sovereignty and security of its territory or for self-defense. He stated that Qatar has always been a champion of peace and is opposed to such activities. He also thanked Nepal for the friendship and solidarity shown during this difficult time.

Expressing hope that this situation would end soon, he emphasized the need to work towards further strengthening and expanding the relationship between the two countries to normalcy.