Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, met with Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sultan bin Saad bin Sultan Al Muraikhi, on Sunday. Their meeting took place in Muscat, Oman, during the Eighth Indian Ocean Conference.
Dr. Rana spoke about Nepal and Qatar’s good relationship. She asked for more scholarships for Nepali students. She also discussed job opportunities for Nepali workers in Qatar. But her main request was for help in freeing Bipin Joshi.
Bipin Joshi’s Kidnapping
Joshi, a young Nepali man, was taken hostage by Hamas in October 2023. He was in Israel at the time of the attack. The attack killed over 1,000 people, including 10 Nepali citizens. His family and the Nepalese people have been waiting for news about him.
Since his capture, Nepal’s government has been working to secure his release. Many people hope that Qatar can play a role in bringing him home.
Qatar’s Role in Peace Talks
Qatar has been involved in peace talks between Israel and Hamas. The country helped mediate a ceasefire and the release of some hostages. Because of this, Nepal sees Qatar as a key partner in the effort to free Joshi.
Minister Rana praised Qatar for its role in these negotiations. She expressed hope that Qatar could assist in bringing Joshi home safely.
Nepal’s Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts
Dr. Rana has been pushing for Joshi’s release through many channels. She raised the issue at international meetings, including the United Nations. She also spoke to other foreign leaders about it.
Earlier, she had a phone call with Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi. He has been a key figure in the peace talks. Dr. Rana asked him for help in securing Joshi’s release.
The Nepalese government has been working hard to bring attention to this issue. They continue to remind international leaders about Joshi’s situation.
The Risk for Nepali Workers Abroad
Many Nepali citizens work abroad, including in Israel and Qatar. They often take jobs in construction, security, and other fields. Some work in areas affected by war and political unrest.
The attack in October 2023 showed the dangers that Nepali workers face. Ten Nepali workers lost their lives in the violence. Joshi was among those taken hostage. His case highlights the risks for Nepali citizens working in conflict zones.
After the attack, Nepal’s government worked to ensure the safety of its citizens abroad. They also helped bring back those affected by the violence. The government has been pushing for stronger safety measures for Nepali workers in high-risk areas.
Hopes for Joshi’s Safe Return
Nepal remains hopeful that Joshi will return home soon. His family, friends, and the whole country are waiting for good news. The government continues to engage in talks with international leaders.
Dr. Rana has assured the Nepalese people that she will not stop her efforts. She is determined to bring Joshi back. Her meeting with Qatar’s minister is part of these efforts.
Many believe that Qatar’s role in previous hostage negotiations can help in this case too. The Nepalese government is counting on Qatar’s support.
Nepal and Qatar’s Relationship
Nepal and Qatar have a strong relationship. Many Nepali citizens work in Qatar. The country provides good job opportunities for them.
During the meeting, Dr. Rana also spoke about the need for more scholarships. She wants Nepali students to get better educational opportunities in Qatar. She also discussed ways to improve job conditions for Nepali workers.
The talks between Nepal and Qatar were not only about Joshi’s release. They were also about strengthening the bond between the two nations.
Next Steps in the Diplomatic Effort
The Nepalese government will continue to push for Joshi’s release. They will work with Qatar and other international allies.
Dr. Rana has made it clear that this issue is a priority. She will raise it in every possible forum. She hopes that with global support, Joshi will be freed soon.
Nepal is doing everything possible to bring Joshi home. Dr. Rana’s meeting with Qatar’s minister is another step in this journey. She is using diplomacy to secure his safe return.
Qatar’s role in peace talks makes it an important ally. Nepal is hopeful that Qatar can help in this case too. The country will keep pushing for Joshi’s release.
For more updates, visit Nepal Monitor.
