U.S.-NEPAL RELATIONS
The United States recognized Nepal in 1947, and the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1948. Bilateral relations are friendly, and U.S. policy objectives toward Nepal center on helping it build a peaceful, prosperous, resilient and democratic society. The United States works with Nepal to support inclusive and effective governance, promote political stability and economic development, decrease the country’s dependence on humanitarian assistance, and increase its ability to make positive contributions to regional security and the broader global community. Nepal is one of the largest contributors of troops to international peacekeeping missions.
Nepal’s comprehensive peace accord formally ended the country’s decade-long Maoist insurgency in 2006. In July 2013, the Government of Nepal announced the successful completion of the reconciliation and integration process of ex-Maoist combatants into the Nepal Army. After the conflict, Nepal held two elections to its Constituent Assembly – the first in 2008, and the second in November 2013. In September 2015, the second Constituent Assembly voted to adopt Nepal’s constitution, which was amended in January 2016. Nepal’s Parliament elected Pushpa Kamal Dahal (“Prachanda”) as the new Prime Minister on August 3, 2016.
U.S. Assistance to Nepal
Nepal is one of the poorest countries in the world and is prone to natural disasters. The country faces several medium- and long-term development challenges, including poor transportation and energy infrastructure, and high vulnerability to climate change.
U.S. assistance seeks to cement gains in peace and security, further the democratic transition, support the continued delivery of essential social services, scale up proven and effective health interventions, reduce extreme poverty and address the challenges of food insecurity and climate change.
Following the April 25, 2015, earthquake in Nepal, the United States committed to aiding in Nepal’s recovery and reconstruction. The United States pledged approximately $130 million to Nepal during the International Reconstruction Conference in Kathmandu on June 25. Secretary Kerry’s June 25 pledge announcement stated, “this is only the beginning of our contribution and we, with the support of our Congress, will continue to work with Nepal to support its long-term earthquake recovery needs across multiple years.” The United States will continue to play an important role in reconstruction efforts, particularly in the most critical sectors like housing, education, health, agriculture, protecting vulnerable populations, and preserving Nepal’s cultural heritage.
Bilateral Economic Relations
The United States and Nepal have signed a trade and investment framework agreement, providing a forum for bilateral talks to enhance trade and investment, discuss specific trade issues, and promote more comprehensive trade agreements between the two countries. Principal U.S. exports to Nepal include agricultural products, aircraft parts, optic and medical instruments and machinery. U.S. imports from Nepal include carpets, apparel and jewelry.
Nepal’s Membership in International Organizations
Nepal and the United States belong to a number of the same international organizations, including the United Nations, International Monetary Fund, World Bank, and World Trade Organization.
Bilateral Representation
The U.S. Ambassador to Nepal is Ambassador Randy Berry ; other principal embassy officials are listed in the Department’s Key Officers List.
Nepal maintains an embassy in the United States at 2131 Leroy Place, NW, Washington, DC 20008 (tel: 202-667-4550).
More information about Nepal is available from the Department of State and other sources, some of which are listed here:
Department of State Nepal Country Page
U.S. Embassy: Nepal
USAID Nepal Page
History of U.S. Relations With Nepal
Human Rights Reports
International Religious Freedom Reports
Trafficking in Persons Reports
Narcotics Control Reports
Investment Climate Statements
Office of the U.S. Trade Representative Countries Page
U.S. Census Bureau Foreign Trade Statistics
Library of Congress Country Studies
Travel and Business Information