Europe Day is a powerful reminder of the day, 75 years ago, when Europe chose cooperation over conflict. In the aftermath of a war, we chose peace. And that choice became the foundation of the European Union.
Today, more than ever, that choice continues to guide us. In a world full of uncertainties, people across the globe are suffering because of climate change, conflict and inequality. The need for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine has not diminished. Conflict in the Mideast continues to bring misery to millions. Closer to us, an increasingly hostile climate threatens lives and livelihoods.
There are currently more live conflicts than at any time since World War II. Despite, and perhaps because of these conflicts, Europe Day should inspire us today to believe in and work for peace and unity.
The European Union remains a strong voice for peace, and we are proud to call Nepal a trusted and valued partner in that journey. Together with our member-states, under the Team Europe approach, we stand alongside Nepal in its efforts to pursue the transitional justice process in the spirit of reconciliation and permanent peace. As a trustworthy friend, we also stand with Nepal in its efforts to avert climate crises and respond to natural disasters.
In its challenging quest for prosperity, Nepal can also count on the EU. Nepal’s graduation from Least Developed Country status in 2026 means it needs to attract investment to foster economic growth. This is not an easy task when migration has become the path of choice for so many Nepali youth. But a solid commitment to improving the investment climate is crucial for realizing Nepal’s considerable economic potential and creating the business and employment opportunities young people need to build the future Nepal.
The European Union is supporting Nepal’s prosperity agenda through its “Global Gateway” initiative, together with the European Union member-states and European Development Finance Institutions. Global Gateway can support Nepal’s progress and narrow the investment gap through smart, clean and secure investments in quality infrastructure and connectivity.
In a rapidly changing, increasingly fragmented world, international cooperation has turned into global competition. The EU also needs to become more strategic and resilient. But we stand firm on the universal values we have built together with the UN since 1945, and on our commitment to multilateralism. As global challenges grow, so does our determination to remain a reliable, consistent, and principled partner. So tonight, as we celebrate Europe Day here in Nepal, let us also celebrate what connects us. The friendship between our peoples. The commitment to a more peaceful and just world. The belief—borne out of our own experiences—that cooperation can overcome even the toughest challenges.
The author is the EU Ambassador to Nepal
