Kathmandu, June 27 – Preparations are in full swing as Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli readies to lead the Nepali delegation at the United Nations’ Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD-40) in Seville, Spain. The conference, slated for June 30 to July 3, aims to mobilize investment and international cooperation to achieve sustainable development, particularly for the world’s least developed countries (LDCs).
Prime Minister Oli’s visit comes at the joint invitation of UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. As the current chair of international coordination for LDCs, Nepal is poised to play a pivotal role in advocating for the interests of these nations, including small and island states.
Focus on Investment and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The conference will bring together global leaders, financial and trade organizations, business entities, civil society representatives, and members of the UN system to discuss sustainable financing solutions. Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister Bishnu Prasad Rimal highlighted the platform’s significance in promoting international cooperation for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lok Bahadur Paudel Kshetri emphasized that discussions will address challenges in mobilizing both immediate and long-term investments, aid, and technology transfer for sustainable development. The conference also provides an opportunity to improve global financial frameworks and strengthen support for the LDCs.
High-Level Engagements and Bilateral Talks
During the visit, Prime Minister Oli is scheduled to address the conference, meet with King Felipe VI of Spain, and hold bilateral discussions with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. He will also engage with other global leaders in sideline meetings to explore opportunities for international collaboration.
The Prime Minister will depart Kathmandu on June 28 via Doha, Qatar, and return on July 5. The high-level delegation includes First Lady Radhika Shakya, Chief Advisor Bishnu Prasad Rimal, Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai, Finance Secretary Ghanshyam Upadhyaya, and other senior government officials. Joining the team will be Nepal’s Ambassador to Spain Shanil Nepal and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Lok Bahadur Thapa.
Opportunities for Nepal
This visit is expected to bolster Nepal’s efforts to attract foreign investment and strengthen its economic ties with Spain and other European nations. The conference is also seen as a vital platform for highlighting Nepal’s development priorities, advocating for the commitments of developed nations, and enhancing Nepal’s global profile as a leader among LDCs.
As Nepal navigates its path toward sustainable development, this engagement underscores the nation’s commitment to international cooperation and strategic partnerships for long-term growth and prosperity.
