Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli of Nepal has requested Egypt’s assistance in securing the release of Bipin Joshi, who has been held hostage by Hamas since October 2023. President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi assured he would prioritize negotiations for all remaining hostages. Additionally, both leaders discussed Nepal’s upcoming climate dialogue, Sagarmatha Sambad, scheduled for May 2024.
On Wednesday, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli of Nepal engaged in a telephone dialogue with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, reiterating Nepal’s appeal for assistance in securing the release of Bipin Joshi. Joshi has been held hostage by Hamas militants since October 7, 2023. During the conversation, Prime Minister Oli expressed gratitude for Egypt’s role in facilitating the Gaza ceasefire and urged continued diplomatic efforts for Joshi’s release.
President Al-Sisi assured Prime Minister Oli that Egypt would prioritize endeavors to secure the release of all remaining hostages in the ongoing negotiations. The specific circumstances surrounding Joshi, a Nepali youth who was participating in a study program when he was abducted, remain unclear. He was taken from Alumim Kibbutz as part of a larger incident that saw 251 individuals kidnapped by Hamas.
In addition to the discussion regarding Joshi, President Al-Sisi acknowledged Nepal’s initiative in hosting Sagarmatha Sambad, an international forum on climate change and sustainability. Prime Minister Oli extended an invitation for Al-Sisi’s participation in the event, scheduled to occur in Kathmandu from May 16 to 18, where global leaders and experts will discuss the theme: “Climate Change, Mountains and the Future of Humanity.”
During their dialogue, the two leaders also touched upon enhancing bilateral relations, multilateral cooperation, and potential high-level official visits, reinforcing the commitment towards collaborative efforts in various spheres.
In conclusion, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has sought Egyptian support for the release of Nepali hostage Bipin Joshi, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic negotiations. The discussion also highlighted Nepal’s commitment to international cooperation in climate change through the Sagarmatha Sambad. This engagement signifies a collaborative approach to global issues and reflects an ongoing commitment to strengthening Nepal-Egypt relations.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
