Nepal UK
KATHMANDU — The Vice President of Vietnam, Vo Thi Anh Xuan, arrived in Kathmandu on Saturday for a three-day visit, a trip aimed at strengthening ties between the two countries. This visit is the first of its kind at such a high level and marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Vietnam.
Upon her arrival, Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Arzu Rana Deuba, met with the Vietnamese Vice President. The main topic of their conversation was encouraging direct flights from Vietnam to two of Nepal’s new international airports in Pokhara and Bhairahawa. These airports have struggled to attract international airlines since they opened, and Nepal hopes that attracting flights from Vietnam will help boost tourism. Minister Deuba pointed out that many Vietnamese people already visit Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, which makes direct flights a great idea for religious tourism.
The Foreign Minister also asked for Vietnam’s support on the global stage, including for Nepal’s plans to move on from its status as a Least Developed Country after 2026. She also sought Vietnam's backing for Nepal's campaigns to become a member of the UN Human Rights Council (2027–2029) and the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) (2029–2031). Vice President Xuan expressed Vietnam's commitment to supporting Nepal in these global efforts.
The visit includes a busy schedule of meetings, including talks with Nepal’s Vice President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav and a courtesy call on Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. The Vietnamese Vice President is also set to meet with President Ramchandra Paudel and tour famous sites like Patan Durbar Square and Swayambhunath Stupa before leaving on Monday.
(Source: RSS reporting)
