KATHMANDU: Minister for Foreign Affairs Shishir Khanal has emphasized the need to align Nepal’s diplomacy with the nation’s economic interests and prosperity goals. He stated that foreign policy should not be limited to expanding political and diplomatic relations but should serve as a tool to achieve economic priorities such as trade, investment, tourism, technology transfer, and job creation.

Speaking at the fourth AIDA Lecture Series organized by the Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (AIDA), Minister Khanal asserted that economic diplomacy must become an integral part of Nepal’s overall development strategy. He noted that amidst a changing global economy, regional competition, and geopolitical shifts, Nepal must be capable of transforming its diplomatic relations into economic opportunities.

Minister Khanal stated that Nepali missions abroad should be mobilized as active promoters of trade, investment, and economic cooperation. He added that economic diplomacy is not the responsibility of a single government agency but a collective effort involving all state bodies, the private sector, entrepreneurs, and the Nepali diaspora. He emphasized that clear national priorities, institutional coordination, and a result-oriented approach are essential for success.

‘In formulating and implementing foreign policy, economic aspects must be prioritized, and diplomatic achievements should be linked to concrete economic outcomes,’ he said. The minister highlighted the need for collaboration between government agencies, regular dialogue with the private sector, and enhancing the capacity of Nepali missions abroad.

He further noted that economic diplomacy should be utilized to expand Nepal’s export capacity and increase the reach of Nepali products in international markets. To achieve this, he called for strengthening professional diplomatic practices alongside active participation from the private sector.