KATHMANDU, June 18 (Xinhua) -- The Nepali government on Thursday welcomed the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the United States and Iran aimed at ending the conflict between the two countries.
Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that the Himalayan nation welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire on April 8. It also expressed encouragement over the signing of the U.S.-Iran peace agreement by the two presidents, calling it the culmination of diplomatic efforts.
"Nepal remains hopeful that the peace agreement will contribute to lasting peace and stability in West Asia while facilitating the normalization of maritime navigation affected by the conflict," the statement said.
Nepal also expressed deep appreciation for the pivotal role played by the countries that mediated the peace process and reiterated its support for all efforts by the international community aimed at promoting peace and stability in the region and beyond.
According to the foreign ministry, more than 1.7 million Nepalis reside in 12 Middle East countries, most of them as migrant workers. ■