KATHMANDU: The Government of Nepal has decided to revoke the use of blue diplomatic number plates on vehicles used by honorary consuls appointed by foreign countries for Nepal. The decision was announced on Thursday by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lok Bahadur Poudel Chhetri.

According to spokesperson Chhetri, the move follows provisions under international law, the principle of reciprocity, and Nepal’s Honorary Consuls Regulation of 1982. “The decision was made after growing complaints about the misuse of vehicles bearing blue diplomatic plates,” he said.

Many of Nepal’s leading business figures currently serve as honorary consuls for various countries. A similar decision had been made in the past, but it was reversed during the tenure of former Foreign Minister Dr. Narayan Khadka.

The government has now instructed all honorary consuls to replace the blue diplomatic plates with private vehicle registration plates. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will coordinate with concerned authorities to ensure the decision is effectively implemented,” Chhetri added.

However, the privileges related to the display of national flags during national day events, official visits by heads of state, government leaders, or foreign ministers, as well as at welcome and farewell ceremonies for ambassadors of the respective countries, will remain unchanged, the ministry clarified.