Foreign Minister Rana draws attention of world seeking Bipin Joshi’s release

NEW YORK: Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba, who is in New York to attend the 79th United Nations General Assembly, has urged the global community to take initiatives for the safe release of Bipin Joshi, a Nepali student, believed to be in the captivity of the extremist group Hamas.

Addressing the Ministerial Meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement on Monday, she called attention of the world community for Joshi’s release. Minister Rana said Nepal is eagerly waiting for Bipin Joshi’s release and wanted the world community to support in this cause.

Ten Nepalis lost their lives in the Hamas’ assault in Israel on October 7, 2023. Hamas had taken Joshi captive after the attack.

The foreign minister said the Government of Nepal condemned the raid by Hamas and it has been calling for Joshi’s safe release.

Stressing on the need for collective international efforts for establishing global peace, she said, “We are at a critical confluence in history, facing the highest number of conflicts. So, we have to work with high priority to protect citizens from armed conflicts.”

The minister rued that despite international efforts, the world continues to fail to stop wars, bring solutions, restore peace and tranquility, and give hope.

“Even as we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, the principles designed to protect civilians are being systematically ignored or misinterpreted by the resourceful and powerful countries,” she said, calling for an immediate end to this situation, and for all to move forward with peace and co-existence.

Referencing ongoing conflicts such as the wars in Israel and Palestine, and Russia and Ukraine, the minister called for an immediate ceasefire, release of hostages and full implementation of Council Resolution 2735 (2024).

She further called for the urgent need for all parties to adhere to international humanitarian and human rights laws, ensure accountability for violations and respect for international law, including the UN Charter.

Minister Rana condemned the indiscriminate attack on civilians, including the UN officials, humanitarian workers, journalists and health professionals, saying the devastation of Gaza on such a scale and the relentless death of civilians cannot be justified.

She also drew global attention to the near-total destruction of homes, schools, hospitals, and basic infrastructure, which has left the entire population in constant fear and deprived of basic necessities like food, education, health, and clean water.

Minister Rana on the occasion urged the international community to put pressure on the warring parties, and find creative solutions to conflicts. She appealed to the world community to be united for peace and coexistence, reaffirming Nepal’s commitment as a member of the Non-Aligned Movement.