KATHMANDU: US Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy, Sarah B. Rogers, paid a courtesy call on Minister for Information and Communication, Dr. Bikram Timilsina, at the Ministry of Information and Communications today.

During the meeting, the two leaders discussed wide-ranging issues of mutual interest, including bilateral relations, information technology, telecommunications, digital security, and investment expansion.

According to the Ministry of Communications, the discussions focused heavily on further strengthening Nepal-US cooperation in digital infrastructure, cyber security, and expanding investment.

Highlighting the friendly and cooperative nature of Nepal-US relations, Under Secretary Rogers stated that the United States is keen to expand cooperation in the information technology and telecommunications sectors.

She noted that American companies are interested in increasing their investments in Nepal and expressed hope for an investment-friendly environment, policy stability, and necessary facilitation from the government.

Rogers also emphasized the need to manage digital challenges while protecting internet freedom, suggesting cooperation in controlling online fraud, the spread of obscene content, and sensitive material.

She reaffirmed that the US stands ready to support Nepal in developing digital infrastructure and boosting investments.

In response, Communication Minister Dr. Timilsina stated that Nepal is actively moving toward economic and administrative transformation through information technology, adding that the country welcomes all forms of bilateral and multilateral cooperation in this sector.

He noted that attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) remains a top priority for the government and briefed the visiting diplomat on the current policy and legal frameworks governing investments in the telecommunications sector.

Furthermore, Minister Timilsina clarified that the government does not favor banning or controlling social media, but stressed the necessity of establishing regulatory arrangements to build a responsible and accountable digital environment.