KATHMANDU: Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana has revealed ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at repatriating Nepali citizens currently serving in the Russian Army.

Speaking at a meeting of the International and Tourism Committee of the House of Representatives on Wednesday, Minister Rana provided updates, stating that 34 Nepali soldiers had lost their lives, while 6 were currently held as prisoners in Ukraine.

She emphasized that diplomatic measures were being actively pursued to facilitate the swift return of other Nepali nationals from the Russian Army.

Furthermore, Minister Rana disclosed that one Nepali individual detained in the Ukraine-Russia conflict had been included in the exchange list.

She affirmed the Government of Nepal’s continuous diplomatic initiatives to secure the safe return of Bipin Joshi, who currently is held hostage by Hamas.

Reflecting on recent rescue efforts, Minister Rana highlighted the timely evacuation of Nepali citizens affected by unrest in Bangladesh.

She noted that approximately 1700 Nepali students had returned from Bangladesh thus far.

Regarding the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Foreign Minister Rana clarified that discussions regarding project implementation were ongoing.

She underscored the government’s commitment to making decisions in the best interest of the country by determining the appropriate modalities.

@khabarhub