KATHMANDU: Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, held bilateral talks with Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya today in Tokyo.

The meeting took place at Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs during Dr. Rana’s official visit to Japan. During the meeting, the two ministers discussed various aspects of Nepal-Japan bilateral relations, matters of mutual interest, and issues of shared concern.

Dr. Rana expressed gratitude on behalf of the Government of Nepal and the Nepali people for Japan’s longstanding support in Nepal’s economic and social development.

They also reviewed the 70-year history of diplomatic relations between the two countries, established in 1956. Both Nepal and Japan are preparing to celebrate the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic ties next year.

On this occasion, Dr. Rana extended an official invitation to the Japanese Foreign Minister to visit Nepal during the upcoming anniversary year.

She also requested continued Japanese assistance as Nepal prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status to a developing nation by 2026.

Dr. Rana encouraged Japan’s business community to invest in Nepal, stating that the country offers numerous opportunities and that the Nepali government ensures protection and facilitation of foreign investments.

Highlighting the deep-rooted cultural ties between Nepal and Japan, Dr. Rana noted that the relationship predates formal diplomatic engagement and is inspired by shared Buddhist values.

She emphasized that the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini in Nepal, serves as a cultural bridge between the two nations.

Thousands of Japanese tourists visit Nepal annually to explore its natural beauty and cultural heritage, including Lumbini.

The two ministers also discussed future cooperation in promoting tourism. Dr. Rana thanked the Japanese government for its active and constructive participation, led by the Deputy Foreign Minister, in the recently held “Sagarmatha Sambaad” in Nepal.