Imagine your loved one caught in a difficult situation far from home. That’s the reality for the family of Vipin Joshi, a Nepali citizen who is currently held by the Hamas group. But there’s good news: Nepal’s government is putting in every possible effort, working non-stop, to bring him back home safely. This isn’t just another task; it’s a top priority and a deeply felt responsibility for the entire nation.
Leading these vital efforts is Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba. Since stepping into her role, she has personally made Vipin’s release a central focus of her work, demonstrating an incredible commitment to his safe return. The diplomatic work involves a wide range of actions, from engaging with global leaders to participating in crucial international meetings, all with one clear goal: to ensure Vipin Joshi’s speedy release.
The Government’s Unwavering Commitment
Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has been at the forefront of this diplomatic push, making it clear that the government is dedicated to achieving Vipin’s release. She stated publicly that the government is making the “maximum diplomatic initiative” to free Vipin Joshi from Hamas’s control. From the moment she became Foreign Minister, she confirmed that this issue was placed at the very top of her agenda, and efforts began immediately. Her commitment has been consistent and unwavering throughout her tenure.
She has personally confirmed that these efforts have been continuous for the past year. Wherever she has traveled or participated in international gatherings, the plea for Vipin’s release has been a constant theme. This includes her presence at the United Nations General Assembly, various international forums, and numerous bilateral and multilateral meetings and discussions. In each of these critical platforms, she has made “special requests” to everyone she has met, highlighting the urgency and importance of Vipin’s safe return. These consistent efforts underscore the deep commitment of the Nepali government to its citizen.
Global Outreach: Diplomacy on Every Front
The diplomatic efforts extend far and wide, touching various international platforms and engaging key global players. For instance, last October, Minister Rana actively participated in the ‘Asian Cooperation Dialogue’ (ACD) conference held in Doha. During this important conference, she not only delivered a key address but also used the opportunity during sideline meetings to raise the issue of Vipin’s release. This proactive approach ensures that the issue remains on the international agenda and garners support from various nations.
Furthermore, as discussions around a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began to take shape, Minister Rana significantly ramped up her diplomatic initiatives. Recognizing the critical window of opportunity, she engaged directly with those who could influence the situation. This involved phone conversations with the foreign ministers of countries involved in or associated with the ceasefire preparations. Additionally, she held face-to-face meetings with the ambassadors of these countries who are based in Nepal, urging them to provide their full cooperation for Vipin’s release. Her strategic timing and comprehensive outreach demonstrate a well-coordinated effort to leverage every possible channel.
Key Players and Critical Conversations
The focus of Nepal’s diplomacy has been very specific, targeting key individuals and nations that could play a pivotal role in securing Vipin’s release. For example, last January, Minister Rana held a phone conversation with Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. This call was particularly significant because Dr. Al-Khulaifi is known as a “chief negotiator and mediator” in the ongoing peace talks in the region. During this vital discussion, Minister Rana explicitly requested that Vipin’s release be prioritized in the “first phase” of any prisoner exchange or release.
Similarly, Minister Rana also engaged directly with the Israeli government by holding a phone conversation with Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gidon Saar. In this conversation, she reiterated the same crucial appeal: that Vipin be among the first individuals released by Hamas, especially if any groups of captives were being freed. This direct communication with both sides of the conflict highlights Nepal’s balanced and urgent approach to the situation.
Beyond these key figures, Minister Rana also extended her outreach to other influential nations in the region. She held phone conversations with Dr. Badr Abdel-Atti, the Foreign Minister of Egypt, and also with the Iranian Foreign Minister. These calls were made to request “special efforts” from the governments of Egypt and Iran for Vipin’s release. Remarkably, some of these critical diplomatic calls were made even while Minister Rana was abroad for personal reasons, specifically when she was in Bangkok for surgery, demonstrating her unwavering dedication regardless of her personal circumstances.
High-Level Interventions: From PM to Presidential Meetings
The efforts to bring Vipin Joshi home are not limited to the Foreign Minister’s initiatives; they involve the very highest levels of the Nepali government. Minister Rana also shared information about interventions made by the Prime Minister of Nepal, KP Sharma Oli. Last February, Prime Minister Oli directly engaged with regional leaders involved in peace initiatives. He held phone conversations with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Said Hussein Khalil. Both of these leaders are recognized for their active roles in promoting peace in the Middle East. During these calls, Prime Minister Oli specifically “drew attention” to Vipin Joshi’s situation, ensuring that his plight was brought to the forefront of discussions concerning regional stability and humanitarian efforts.
In a deeply moving and powerful development, Vipin Joshi’s own family has become directly involved in the plea for his release. Minister Rana informed that Vipin’s mother and sister have traveled to Israel. This significant journey was undertaken “in consultation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs” and with the invaluable “cooperation of the Israeli government”. Their presence in Israel allowed them a profoundly important opportunity: they met with the Israeli President. During this poignant meeting, Vipin’s mother and sister made a heartfelt “appeal for Vipin’s release,” putting a personal face to the ongoing diplomatic efforts and emphasizing the human toll of his continued captivity. This direct appeal from his family adds another layer of emotional urgency to the diplomatic push.
A Nation United in Hope
The Nepal government views Vipin Joshi’s release as a fundamental duty and responsibility. Minister Rana reiterated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working “tirelessly” and leaving “no stone unturned” in its efforts to secure his swift release from Hamas’s control. This commitment reflects a deep-seated belief within the government that every possible measure must be taken to ensure the safety and return of its citizens abroad.
In a gesture of profound gratitude, Minister Rana extended a “special thank you” to all those who are actively involved in the efforts for Vipin’s release. This includes the Israeli government and its citizens, who have shown their support, as well as the Nepali community residing in Israel. Furthermore, she expressed appreciation to the entire global community that has joined in this humanitarian cause. This collective effort, spanning governments, organizations, and individuals, highlights the widespread hope and determination to see Vipin Joshi reunited with his family and nation.
The case of Vipin Joshi stands as a testament to Nepal’s steadfast commitment to its citizens, no matter where they are in the world. Under the diligent leadership of Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba and with the support of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Nepal continues to pursue every possible diplomatic channel to ensure Vipin’s safe and swift return. The recent meeting between Vipin’s family and the Israeli President further underscores the deeply personal and urgent nature of these efforts. As the diplomatic initiatives continue, the entire nation of Nepal holds onto hope for Vipin Joshi’s safe return, believing that these sustained and dedicated efforts will ultimately bring him back to his anxiously awaiting family.
Author – KRISHNA THAPA
