By Yubarna Paudel
Kathmandu, February 10 – In an exclusive interview with H.E. Aleksei Novikov, Ambassador of Russia to Nepal, on the occasion of Diplomat’s Day, the Russian envoy shared insights into the historical and evolving relationship between the two nations, highlighting key areas of cooperation and future prospects.
A Legacy of Strong Bilateral Ties
Ambassador Novikov recalled the rich history of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Russia, which officially commenced on July 20, 1956. High-level visits in the early years laid the foundation for a relationship built on equality, mutual respect, and non-interference.
In 1958, King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Deva visited Moscow, fostering diplomatic goodwill. Similarly, in 1960, Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet, K.E. Voroshilov, visited Nepal, further cementing ties. These visits established a framework for technical and economic cooperation, which saw Russia contribute significantly to Nepal’s infrastructure and industrial development.
During the 1960s-1980s, Russia provided free technical and economic assistance, helping construct key projects like:
Panauti Hydropower Station
Kanti Children’s Hospital
Birgunj Sugar Mill and Agricultural Tools Factory
Janakpur Cigarette Factory
110 km section of the East-West Highway
This assistance played a crucial role in Nepal’s industrialization and development, strengthening the foundation of Nepal-Russia friendship.
Educational and Cultural Ties
Beyond economic cooperation, Russia has been a strong partner in education. The first two Nepali students went to the USSR in 1957, marking the beginning of a long-standing academic exchange. Between 1960-1980, Russia annually granted more than 100 scholarships to Nepali students in fields like engineering, medicine, and sciences. Over the decades, more than 8,500 Nepalis have graduated from Russian universities, contributing significantly to Nepal’s skilled workforce.
Recognizing the continued interest in Russian education, Ambassador Novikov emphasized the need for expanding course selections for Nepali students in medicine, agriculture, hydropower, and technology. Additionally, Russian language courses at the Russian House in Kathmandu serve as a cultural bridge, strengthening people-to-people ties.
Current Bilateral Relations and Future Prospects
Ambassador Novikov expressed satisfaction with the historically friendly and conflict-free relationship between Russia and Nepal. However, he highlighted that Nepal’s strict neutrality policy sometimes limits its ability to engage in strategic international cooperation.
Moving forward, Russia seeks stronger economic collaboration in key sectors:
Hydropower development
Agricultural trade (grain, oils, fertilizers)
Restoration of direct air links
Tourism promotion
Tourism remains a particularly promising area. Russia is one of Nepal’s fastest-growing tourist markets, with 13,700 Russian visitors arriving in 2024, setting a record. Nepal’s recent recognition of six new eight-thousanders has further sparked interest in joint Russian-Nepali mountaineering expeditions. A Russian sport tourism team is currently exploring Nepal’s Arun River, showcasing Nepal’s potential as an adventure tourism destination.
Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of Victory over Fascism
2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany and militarist Japan, a milestone of historical significance. Ambassador Novikov emphasized the importance of preserving historical truth, particularly against modern attempts to downplay the Soviet Union’s role in World War II.
Russia will commemorate this victory with grand celebrations, including the May 9 Victory Parade in Moscow, attended by several world leaders. Russia and China will also jointly mark this event, reinforcing their strategic partnership.
The Russian Embassy in Nepal will organize a series of events, including:
“Immortal Regiment” and “St. George Ribbon” processions in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini
Thematic exhibitions, lectures, and film screenings throughout 2025
Programs to honor veterans and promote awareness among youth
Ambassador Novikov stressed that honoring the memory of those who fought against fascism is a shared duty and an essential aspect of international peace and cooperation.
Strengthening the Russia-Nepal Partnership
Looking ahead, Ambassador Novikov reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to deepening ties with Nepal across multiple sectors. From economic collaboration to education and cultural exchange, both nations have immense opportunities to expand their historically strong relationship into a more dynamic and mutually beneficial partnership.
As Nepal positions itself on the global stage, its engagement with Russia in key areas like infrastructure, energy, and trade could unlock new avenues for growth and reinforce historical bonds of friendship that have endured for over six decades.
