Kathmandu: President Ramchandra Paudel and German President Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier met at the Office of the President in Berlin, Germany, on Monday. This meeting is a significant step in strengthening the longstanding ties between Nepal and Germany.

President Paudel emphasized the importance Nepal places on its relationship with Germany and expressed optimism about deepening these ties in the evolving global context. He highlighted the need for international organizations like the Socialist International and the Progressive Alliance to be more active in promoting social justice, human rights, democracy, the rule of law, and freedom.

Paudel acknowledged Germany's support in Nepal's peace process and expressed confidence in continued cooperation in Nepal's development efforts. He underscored the necessity of economic development for maintaining political stability and achieving national aspirations of sustainable peace, stability, and growth. He hoped for continued support from Germany and other international allies in this endeavor.

President Paudel praised Germany's commitment to the climate-related damage and loss fund, which aims to help developing countries cope with the impacts of climate change. He noted that Nepal and Germany share common perspectives on numerous socio-economic issues, such as participatory democracy, human rights, fundamental rights, gender equality, and climate change, in international forums.

Highlighting Nepal's current goals, President Paudel mentioned the modernization of agriculture, harnessing water resources and energy potentials, accelerating infrastructure development, leveraging tourism, and addressing climate change impacts. He expressed hope for German support in these sectors, specifically mentioning the need for an agricultural revolution and the development of water resources and tourism.

President Paudel also sought German assistance in securing the release of Nepali nationals caught up in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He called for initiatives to motivate the private sector to enhance trade, investment, and commercial relations between Nepal and Germany, noting the enthusiastic participation of German investors in the recent Nepal Investment Summit.

The President emphasized the growing interest among Nepali youths in Germany for higher education, skilled jobs, and training. He expressed confidence that the implementation of a labor migration and knowledge exchange agreement signed last year would further strengthen bilateral relations at the people-to-people level.

Furthermore, President Paudel sought Germany's support in lifting the European Union's ban on Nepali airlines, including the national carrier, Nepal Airlines, from flying over EU skies.

In response, President Steinmeier assured Germany's readiness to support Nepal's economic development initiatives. He empathized with Nepal's challenges, particularly regarding climate change, and expressed Germany's willingness to assist.

President Steinmeier acknowledged the longstanding friendship between Nepal and Germany and noted the shared values at the United Nations and other international forums. He also expressed a positive outlook on removing the EU's ban on Nepali airlines.

This visit marks the first by a Nepali Head of State to Germany since 1986. President Paudel observed a Guard of Honour in Germany, reflecting the formal recognition of this significant diplomatic visit.

President Paudel arrived in Germany on June 15, following a visit to Switzerland, on an official invitation from German President Steinmeier.