Europe must act urgently and stop outsourcing defence, says EU's Kallas

Europe must step up urgently to improve its defence and make Nato "more European to maintain its strength", because the US has shaken the transatlantic relationship to its foundation, the EU's foreign policy chief has warned, BBC reported. 

The US would continue to be Europe's partner and ally, Kaja Kallas told a defence conference, but no great power had ever "outsourced its survival and survived".

Tensions with the US flared when President Donald Trump threatened to take over Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory, according to BBC. 

Plane crashes in Colombia, killing all 15 on board

A passenger plane has crashed in northern Colombia, killing all 15 people on board, the country's state-run airline Satena confirmed, BBC reported. 

In a statement, it said its aircraft - a Beechcraft 1900 - "suffered a fatal accident", but gave no further details. The wreckage has now been located in a mountainous area.

The official passenger list includes lawmaker Diogenes Quintero Amaya and Carlos Salcedo, a candidate in upcoming congressional elections, according to BBC. 

Trump warns Iran 'time is running out' for nuclear deal as US military builds up in Gulf

Donald Trump has warned Iran that "time is running out" to negotiate a deal on its nuclear programme following the steady build-up of US military forces in the Gulf, BBC reported. 

The US president said a "massive Armada" was "moving quickly, with great power, enthusiasm, and purpose" towards Iran, referring to a large US naval fleet.

In response, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the country's armed forces were ready "with their fingers on the trigger" to "immediately and powerfully respond" to any aggression by land or sea, according to BBC. 

Gaurav Tayal appointed NICCI Vice President

Nepal-India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) has appointed Managing Director of Surya Nepal Gaurav Tayal as its Vice President . 

A meeting of the Chamber’s Executive Committee meeting held on Tuesday made the decision to this effect. 

Tayal succeeds Ravi Rayavaram in the role. 

He recently assumed charge as Managing Director of Surya Nepal and now takes on the vice-presidential responsibility at NICCI, further strengthening the leadership continuum between the two institutions.

Welcoming the appointment, NICCI President Sunil KC expressed confidence in Tayal’s ability to contribute meaningfully to the Chamber’s mission. “Tayal’s engagement with NICCI will add fresh momentum to our initiatives and help the Chamber expand its reach and impact,” KC said.

The Executive Committee and the President of NICCI jointly welcomed Tayal and conveyed their expectation that, during his tenure, the Chamber will play an even more active role in facilitating bilateral trade, economic cooperation, and broader engagement between Nepal and India. 

 

 

 

Norwegian envoy calls on Prime Minister Karki

Norwegian Ambassador to Nepal Dagny Mjøs paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Sushila Karki today.

During the meeting held at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar, matters of mutual interest and well-being between the two countries were discussed.

 

JSP Nepal expels eight leaders

The Janata Samajbadi Party Nepal (JSP-N) has expelled eight leaders for filing nominations against the party’s official candidates to contest the elections to the House of Representatives scheduled for March 5, the party said on Wednesday.

Those expelled are Pradeep Yadav, Chandan Kumar Singh, Atma Ram Sah, Kamrullah Ansari, Udayakant Mishra, Hari Narayan Yadav, Nawal Kishor Singh, and Dr. Shiva Ji Yadav.

In a statement, party patron Mahanta Thakur and Chairman Upendra Yadav said the action was taken for violating party policies and decisions.

 

 

Border security post established at Miteri Bridge in Birgunj

A border security post has been established at the Miteri Bridge along the Nepal–India border in Birgunj, Parsa.

The facility was established through the collaboration of the Armed Police Force (APF) and the Green City Community Service Center, with support from Birgunj Metropolitan City. 

Birgunj Mayor Rajeshman Singh inaugurated the post, assuring its systematic operation.

Mayor Singh said that beautification works in and around the Miteri Bridge have been going on for the past few months and said the improvements are clearly visible to those passing through the area. He urged everyone to support the local government’s efforts to make Birgunj clean and green.

Likewise, Parsa Chief District Officer Bhola Dahal applauded the border beautification initiatives, including those along the border areas.

 

NC President Thapa vows to dedicate himself  to development works by staying with people

Nepali Congress President Gagan Kumar Thapa has said elected Members of Parliament must maintain direct contact with their voters.

Thapa, who is contesting the March 5 elections to the House of Representatives from Sarlahi-4, said he would remain closely engaged with constituents and focus on development by establishing a liaison office in the constituency.

Speaking at a program in Dhankaul, Sarlahi, on Thursday, Thapa said he would prioritise addressing issues related to education, health, and employment in the region. 

He said his previous political experience in the hills and urban areas would help him better understand and work for the Madhes.

“I have come here not only as a leader but as a son of the people,” Thapa said, pledging to respect the mandate of voters and work in line with their aspirations. He also said public suggestions and feedback would be incorporated into his work.

The 49-year-old leader has been holding meetings with party cadres, leaders, and local residents as part of his election campaign.

On the occasion, Thapa, who recently assumed office as president of the country’s oldest democratic party, welcomed new members into the Nepali Congress.

According to his secretariat, Thapa is scheduled to return to Kathmandu on Friday.