London, May 20, 2024 – A special ceremony was held today at the British Prime Minister’s Office, 10 Downing Street, marking the centenary of the Treaty of Friendship between Nepal and the United Kingdom, signed in 1923.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak praised the enduring contributions of the British Gurkhas to the strong bilateral ties between the two nations. Highlighting various dimensions of this historic relationship, he reminisced about British King Charles’ visit to Nepal and expressed admiration for the accomplishments of the Nepali diaspora in Britain. Sunak emphasized the potential for enhanced cooperation in trade, investment, and climate change between Britain and Nepal in the future.

Nepal’s Ambassador to the UK, Gyan Chandra Acharya, conveyed best wishes on behalf of Nepal’s Prime Minister. He underscored the significance of the 1923 treaty, noting its pivotal role in establishing Nepal’s international presence and fostering global relations. Acharya highlighted Nepal’s social and political progress and expressed gratitude for the UK’s ongoing support in Nepal’s development. He voiced optimism for the expansion and strengthening of bilateral relations over the next century.

UK Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ann Marie Trevelyan, reaffirmed the close ties between the two countries. She pledged the UK’s continued support for Nepal’s development goals, particularly in helping Nepal achieve middle-income status through expanded economic cooperation.

Organised through collaboration between the Nepali Embassy and the British Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this ceremony commemorated the centennial of the Treaty of Friendship, British Nepali entrepreneur & philanthropist Mr Rabindra Jung Lamichhane stated. He also facilitated and played a crucial role to organise the event.

A similar program was held in Nepal’s Prime Minister’s Office on December 21, 2023, the exact date of the treaty’s signing.

The centenary celebration underscores the enduring and evolving partnership between Nepal and the United Kingdom, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering deeper bilateral relations and mutual prosperity, philanthropist Mr Prashant Kunwar stated. The event was attended by members of the Nepalese community, popular Bollywood Nepali actress Manisha Koirala, Everest record holder double amputee ex-Gurkha Mr. Hari Budha Magar, other various former Gurkhas, British MPs, high-ranking officials, and British friends of Nepal engaged in various professions and businesses.