Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has solicited Egyptian President Al-Sisi’s help for the release of Nepali hostage Bipin Joshi held by Hamas. Al-Sisi has agreed to prioritize efforts for Joshi’s release, and the leaders also discussed Nepal’s Sagarmatha Sambad climate forum, which will promote global cooperation on environmental issues.
Nepal’s Prime Minister, KP Sharma Oli, reached out to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi on Wednesday, requesting assistance in the release of Bipin Joshi, a Nepali hostage held by Hamas militants since October 7, 2023. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement highlighting that Prime Minister Oli acknowledged Egypt’s crucial role in mediating the Gaza ceasefire and urged continued efforts towards Joshi’s release.
President Al-Sisi confirmed that Egypt would prioritize facilitating the release of all remaining hostages, including Joshi, during the second phase of the hostage exchange. Joshi’s circumstances remain unclear; he was abducted while participating in Israel’s “Learn and Earn” agricultural study program at Alumim Kibbutz, amidst a broader incident where Hamas seized 251 individuals.
In addition to discussing Joshi’s situation, President Al-Sisi praised Nepal’s initiative for the Sagarmatha Sambad, expressing support for its success. Prime Minister Oli extended an invitation for Al-Sisi to participate in this forum, which will focus on climate change and sustainability from May 16 to 18 in Kathmandu. The dialogue aims to encourage global cooperation on climate issues and features participation from numerous international delegates.
The discussion between the leaders also encompassed bilateral relations, multilateral cooperation, and potential high-level visits between the two countries. The shared objectives stress the importance of diplomatic engagement and collaborative efforts in addressing both immediate and long-term challenges.
In summary, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli of Nepal has sought Egypt’s assistance to secure the release of Bipin Joshi, a hostage held by Hamas since October 7. President Al-Sisi has committed to prioritizing this effort while expressing support for Nepal’s upcoming climate dialogue, the Sagarmatha Sambad. This interaction underscores the importance of international cooperation in both humanitarian matters and global environmental challenges.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
