Press Release- Second Meeting of Nepal and Oman Bilateral Consultations Concludes in Kathmandu

Press Release

Second Meeting of Nepal and Oman Bilateral Consultations Concludes in Kathmandu

Nepal and the Sultanate of Oman concluded the Second Meeting of the Nepal–Oman Bilateral Consultations in Kathmandu today, reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across areas of mutual interest.

The meeting reviewed the full spectrum of Nepal–Oman relations and provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on key bilateral, regional and international matters.

Both sides acknowledged the longstanding bonds of friendship between the two countries and underscored the importance of enhancing cooperation and collaboration for mutual benefit.

The two sides briefed each other on recent political and economic developments in their respective countries and reaffirmed their commitment to further enhancing bilateral cooperation in various areas, including agriculture, trade, tourism, investment, labour migration and culture, among others.

The Nepali side also briefed the Omani delegation on the recent devastating floods in the Bhote Koshi River and appreciated the urgent humanitarian support from friendly partners, expressed hope for continued support for recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts.

Discussions also focused on the proposed establishment of an Embassy of Oman in Kathmandu and the establishment of a Nepal-Oman friendship association. The two sides further discussed preparations for the joint commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in 2027.

The meeting explored opportunities to expand bilateral trade and investment, particularly in hydropower, agriculture and other priority sectors. Tourism promotion, enhanced air connectivity and cooperation in the health sector were also discussed as important areas for strengthening economic ties and fostering closer engagement between the two countries.

Cooperation on labour migration featured prominently in the discussions, with both sides emphasising the importance of ensuring safe, orderly and mutually beneficial labour mobility. The meeting underscored the need to safeguard the welfare, rights and interests of Nepali workers in Oman and stressed the importance of expediting the conclusion of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Labour and Manpower Exchange.

The two sides also reviewed the status of existing bilateral agreements and MoUs as well as those under consideration. They emphasised the importance of timely follow-up and effective implementation of bilateral agreements and MoUs. Cooperation in culture and education was another key area of discussion, with both sides exploring opportunities for cultural programmes, scholarships, diplomatic and academic exchanges, and enhanced people-to-people contacts.

On regional and international matters, the delegations exchanged views on recent developments in the West Asia region. Both sides also explored avenues for closer cooperation in multilateral forums, including in the United Nations.

The Nepali delegation was led by Foreign Secretary Mr Amrit Bahadur Rai, while the Omani delegation was headed by H. E. Sheikh Khalifa Al Harthy, Undersecretary for Political Affairs at the Foreign Ministry of Oman.

The Nepal–Oman Bilateral Consultation Mechanism was established through a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2017.

The first meeting of the mechanism was held in Muscat in August 2024.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Singhadurbar, Kathmandu

08 October 2026