Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has embarked on a visit to New York, where he will lead Nepal’s delegation at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Accompanied by his spouse Radhika Shakya, Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba, Chief Adviser Bishnu Prasad Rimal, Foreign Secretary Sewa Lamsal, and other senior officials, Oli’s participation in the UNGA is a significant diplomatic engagement for Nepal.

During his visit, Prime Minister Oli is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly on September 26, focusing on this year’s theme, “Leaving no one behind: Acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development, and human dignity.” In addition to his speech, he will attend the opening session of the general debate on September 24 and a reception hosted by US President Joe Biden on September 25.

Oli’s itinerary includes participating in several high-level meetings, such as the Summit of the Future, where he will speak as the chair of the Global Coordination Bureau of Least Developed Countries (LDCs). He will also engage in discussions on critical global issues like sea-level rise and antimicrobial resistance.

Beyond the UNGA, Oli is scheduled to deliver a keynote address at Columbia University on “Nepal’s journey to democracy and economic prosperity” on September 23, and he will speak at the John F. Kennedy Jr. Forum at Harvard University on September 27, focusing on “Nepal’s perspective: From transitional justice to climate justice.”

During his stay, Prime Minister Oli will meet with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and conduct various bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the UNGA, strengthening Nepal’s international relations.

While Oli is abroad, Deputy Prime Minister Prakash Man Singh has been assigned to oversee the prime minister’s daily administrative duties in Nepal, as per the recommendation of President Ramchandra Paudel. Oli is expected to return to Nepal on September 30.