| International Relations |
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Nepal's foreign policy objectives are guided by the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and the nonalignment. As such, Nepal enjoys cordial relations with all the countries of the world. This is also manifested by the expansion of diplomatic relations which has reached 113 countries in 1999. Through 18 residential embassies, 4 consulates and numerous honorary consul generals/ consuls abroad, Nepal is striving to consolidate bilateral and multilateral relations with friendly countries and international organizations. Meanwhile, 22 embassies, consulates and cooperation offices, country representatives of various international organizations including the UN, World Bank, IMF and ADB based in Kathmandu have equally made significant contribution to help achieve these goals. Nepal attaches considerable importance to the promotion of closer economic cooperation in South Asia. To this end, Nepal is actively working with members of SAARC for the creation of the South Asian Free Trade area (SAFTA) and is also engaged in the sub regional cooperation in the form of South Asian Growth Quadrangle (SAGQ). Nepal is the host of the SAARC Secretariat.Economic diplomacy has added another significant dimension of Nepal's foreign policy priorities in recent years. Its main objectives are to promote Nepal's exports trade, to attract greater number of tourists to Nepal, and to enhance the flow of foreign direct investment in the economy. |
