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๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ต Nepal /Conflict & Security

Nepal Dismisses 15 Honorary Consuls Abroad, Seeks Release of Citizen Held in Iran

From Kathmandu Post · (1h ago) English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • The Nepali government has dismissed 15 honorary consuls and consul generals serving in various foreign cities.
  • This decision, made during a cabinet meeting, cited necessity and appropriateness of service as reasons for the dismissals.
  • Separately, efforts are ongoing to secure the release of Amrit Jha, a Nepali citizen detained in Iran.

The government of Nepal has taken a decisive step by relieving 15 honorary consuls and consul generals of their duties across 15 foreign cities. This move, announced by Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Lok Bahadur Paudel Chettri, reflects a strategic reassessment of diplomatic representation abroad. The decision was based on the 'necessity and appropriateness of their service,' adhering to established regulations. This action underscores Nepal's commitment to optimizing its foreign affairs apparatus.

By the decision of the government of Nepal, Nepali honorary consuls general and honorary consuls serving at 15 locations abroad have been relieved of their responsibilities.

โ€” Lok Bahadur Paudel ChettriSpokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announcing the cabinet decision.

In parallel, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to secure the release of Amrit Jha, a Nepali national currently in custody in Iran. Jha, a ship captain, was detained near the Strait of Hormuz. The ministry is maintaining close contact with Iranian authorities and Jha's family, emphasizing the ongoing legal proceedings and the government's dedication to his safe return. This situation highlights the complexities of international relations and the government's role in protecting its citizens abroad.

This decision has been made based on the necessity and appropriateness of their service in those locations, in accordance with Section 2, Rule 7(8) of the Honorary Consuls Regulations, 2039 (Sixth Amendment).

โ€” Lok Bahadur Paudel ChettriExplaining the rationale behind the dismissal of honorary consuls.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathmandu Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.