KATHMANDU: In a historic visit marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, Vietnamese Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan met with Nepal’s Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba on Saturday to strengthen bilateral cooperation in tourism and multilateral forums. The high-level dialogue centered on a request for Vietnam’s support in establishing direct air links to Nepal’s new international airports in Bhairahawa and Pokhara, aimed at capitalizing on a recent surge in tourism between the two nations.

During the meeting, Minister Deuba also sought Vietnam’s backing for Nepal’s candidacies for UN bodies, including the Human Rights Council and the Economic and Social Council. Vice President Vo confirmed Vietnam’s commitment to assisting Nepal’s international aspirations. The two leaders also underscored their shared interest in promoting cultural tourism through their common Buddhist heritage and pledged to continue working together on global agendas such as South-South cooperation and climate change.

The three-day official visit, the first-ever of its kind from Vietnam to Nepal, is a testament to the deepening ties between the two nations.