Kathmandu: Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, has described her recent visit to India as fruitful in strengthening diplomatic ties and fostering future cooperation in various sectors.

Speaking to media persons at Tribhuvan International Airport upon her return today, Minister Dr. Rana shared insights from her participation in the Raisina Dialogue 2025, held in New Delhi from March 17 to 20 and organized by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs.

On the sidelines of the conference, Minister Rana held bilateral meetings with her counterparts from India, Moldova, Georgia, Ukraine, and the Philippines, as well as with Ricky Gill, Senior Director for South and Central Asian Affairs at the US National Security Council.

During her meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, Minister Rana emphasized the need for continued electricity trade between Nepal and India. “While in India, I made diplomatic efforts to address Nepal’s current power shortage. Specifically, I requested an increase in electricity supply through the Indian Energy Exchange, in line with the existing bilateral agreements between our two countries,” she said.

Minister Rana also raised important humanitarian concerns during her diplomatic engagements. In her discussion with US official Ricky Gill, she requested continued US support for Nepal and intervention in securing the safe release of Nepali citizen Bipin Joshi, who is believed to be held captive by Hamas.

Additionally, in her meeting with Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, she urged for assistance in securing the safe release of seven Nepali citizens reportedly being held as prisoners of war in Ukraine.

Addressing media queries regarding recent political developments in Nepal, Dr. Rana clarified that India remains supportive of Nepal’s democratic system. “There has been no discussion on this issue in India, but it is clear that India wants a democratic system in Nepal,” she stated.