Kathmandu— United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has touched down in Nepal for a significant four-day official visit, receiving a warm welcome from the nation’s dignitaries and officials.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Narayan Prakash Saud extended a cordial greeting to the UN Secretary-General at the VVIP lounge of the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, marking the commencement of his visit.

Accompanying Minister Saud were high-ranking officials from the Government of Nepal and representatives of the UN Office in Nepal, among other notable figures. A distinguished moment occurred as the Nepal Army proudly rendered a guard of honor to Secretary-General Guterres.

This noteworthy visit to Nepal transpired following an invitation from Prime Minister of Nepal Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda.’ Guterres’ itinerary for the first day of his visit includes a courtesy call on President Ramchandra Paudel at the Office of the President, followed by a meeting with Prime Minister Dahal at the Prime Minister’s office, as confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Secretary-General Guterres is also scheduled to engage in separate meetings with Nepali Congress (NC) President Sher Bahadur Deuba and CPN-UML Chairperson KP Sharma Oli at the New Baneshwor-based Federal Parliament Building. In addition, he will hold distinct meetings with Deputy Prime Ministers Purna Bahadur Khadka and Narayankaji Shrestha.

After these productive discussions, he will take the time to explore the historical and archaeological marvels of Patan Durbar Square, a heritage site of significant importance.

The day will conclude with Prime Minister Dahal hosting a banquet reception in honor of Secretary-General Guterres, bringing together a diverse gathering of individuals.

As the visit unfolds, Secretary-General Guterres is set to embark on a journey to Namche, Pokhara, Annapurna Base Camp, and Lumbini on the following day. His schedule culminates with a highly anticipated address to the joint session of the federal parliament at 4:00 pm on Tuesday, as confirmed by the Parliament Secretariat.

During this momentous visit, the Secretary-General will engage in discussions touching on crucial matters, including the peace process, sustainable development, and climate change, as revealed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This high-profile visit of the UN Secretary-General, occurring after a hiatus of approximately 15 years, is regarded with the utmost significance, underscoring the importance of international cooperation and diplomatic relations in today’s complex global landscape.