Russian House in Kathmandu

14/08/2026

🇳🇵🤝🇷🇺 Photo Exhibition & Formal Interaction Program in Pokhara

On 14 August 2026, a Photo Exhibition and Formal Interaction Program on "The Role of Russia in the Tourism of Nepal" was held at the Nepal Tourism Board, Gandaki Province Office, Pokhara – as part of the commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Nepal and Russia.

The program brought together representatives of the Russian diplomatic mission, Gandaki Province Assembly, Nepal Tourism Board, tourism professionals, academia, and Nepal–Russia friendship organizations to reflect on seven decades of friendship and explore new opportunities for cooperation in tourism, culture, education and people-to-people relations.

The discussion also recalled the historical foundations of Nepal–Russia relations. Diplomatic relations between Nepal and the Soviet Union were established during the reign of King Mahendra under the leadership of Prime Minister Tank Prasad Acharya. The program reflected on the diplomatic initiatives undertaken during the leadership of Soviet leaders Nikita Khrushchev and Prime Minister Nikolai Bulganin, as well as the subsequent expansion of bilateral cooperation during the reign of King Birendra – particularly in education, technical cooperation, health and development. The 70th anniversary provided an opportunity to commemorate this important history while looking toward the future of bilateral relations.

In his welcome remarks, Anant Kumar Shrestha, Executive Member of the Nepal–Russia People's Friendship Society, congratulated Nepal and Russia on the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations and emphasized the importance of using the occasion to further promote tourism, friendship and people-to-people connectivity between the two countries. He highlighted the need to build upon the achievements of the past seven decades and create new opportunities for cooperation.

Er. Laxmi Prasad Tripathi, Vice President of Mitra Kunj, highlighted the historical development and enduring significance of Nepal–Russia diplomatic relations, emphasizing the strong foundation of friendship between the two nations.

Subash Malla, Lecturer and PhD Scholar in Tourism, presented research on Russia's contribution to and impact on tourism development in Nepal, with particular attention to Pokhara and opportunities for expanding tourism cooperation.

Ujjwal Adhikari, Assistant Professor and PhD Scholar, shared academic perspectives on strengthening educational, research and knowledge-exchange cooperation between Nepal and Russia.

From the tourism sector, Taranath Pahari, President of the Pokhara Tourism Council, emphasized the importance of Russian visitors to Nepal and the potential for stronger tourism promotion, destination marketing and institutional cooperation to position Pokhara as an attractive destination for Russian travellers.

Mani Raj Lamichhane, Senior Official at the Nepal Tourism Board, Gandaki Province Office, highlighted the role of tourism institutions in promoting Nepal internationally and strengthening engagement with the Russian tourism market through coordinated promotional and institutional initiatives.

Anastasia Khokhlova, Counsellor of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Nepal and Head of the Russian House, Kathmandu, addressed the gathering as the Special Guest. She emphasized the long-standing friendship between Nepal and Russia and the importance of further developing cooperation in tourism, culture, education and direct people-to-people relations.

Hon. Bina Kumari Thapa, Deputy Speaker of the Gandaki Province Assembly, delivered the Chief Guest's remarks, underlining the importance of Nepal–Russia relations and the opportunities for Gandaki Province and Pokhara to strengthen cooperation with Russian institutions and cities.

Kusum Keshab Parajuli, Founder President of the Nepal–Russia People's Friendship Society, reflected on the Society's longstanding contribution to Nepal–Russia friendship, recalling its engagement from the Soviet period to the present day. He highlighted the Society's continued efforts and collaboration with the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Nepal and Russian House in Kathmandu in promoting friendship, cultural exchange, cooperation and people-to-people relations.

In his closing remarks, Keshab Raj Lamsal, President of the Nepal–Russia People's Friendship Society, reaffirmed the Society's commitment to further strengthening bilateral friendship and cooperation – particularly in tourism, culture, education and community-level engagement.

The event also featured the presentation of Certificates and Tokens of Appreciation, recognizing individuals and organizations for their contributions to promoting Nepal–Russia friendship and cooperation.

The program served as both a commemoration of 70 years of diplomatic relations and a platform for looking ahead to new avenues of cooperation. In particular, the discussion highlighted the potential for stronger engagement between Russia and Pokhara through tourism promotion, cultural exchange, education, institutional partnerships and people-to-people connectivity.

Seven decades of friendship, built on a shared history and strengthened by cooperation – with a shared vision for deeper partnership in the years ahead. 🇳🇵🤝🇷🇺

14/08/2026

Nepal–Russia: Strengthening Cooperation at the Local Level
 
Pokhara, 14 August 2026 – On the occasion of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Russia, Anastasia Khokhlova, Counsellor of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Nepal and Head of the Russian House in Kathmandu, held a courtesy meeting with Dhan Raj Acharya, Mayor of Pokhara Metropolitan City.
 
The meeting was facilitated with the support of the Nepal–Russia People’s Friendship Society (Pokhara Chapter), contributing to continued dialogue and stronger people-to-people relations between Nepal and Russia.
 
The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between Pokhara and Russian cities and institutions – particularly in the areas of tourism, culture, education, youth, information technology, local products, investment, and urban development.
 
A key proposal was the establishment of a sister-city relationship between Pokhara and a Russian city, with Sochi identified as a potential partner. Cultural and literary cooperation was also highlighted, including the translation of more than 100 Russian literary works into Nepali and the proposal for a Russian pavilion at the Pokhara Literature Festival.
 
The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment of both sides to strengthening the 70-year friendship between Nepal and Russia through meaningful municipal cooperation, cultural exchange, and stronger people-to-people connections.
 

14/08/2026

Russian House in Kathmandu Visits the International Mountain Museum in Pokhara
 
On 14 August 2026, the Head of the Russian House in Kathmandu, Anastasia Khokhlova, together with representatives of the partner organization – the Nepal–Russia Friendship Society (Pokhara Chapter) – visited the International Mountain Museum in Pokhara.
 
The visit was organized by the Executive Director of the Nepal Mountaineering Association, Nirmala Neupane. The two sides discussed the museum’s recent achievements and prospects for further cooperation, primarily in promoting knowledge of the world’s mountain systems and Russia’s heritage in mountaineering and mountain sports.
 
The proposed cooperation will open new opportunities for Nepali students, museum visitors, and the wider public to learn more about the beauty, culture, ecology, and sporting traditions of mountain regions. It will also strengthen Nepal–Russia ties in mountain tourism and cultural exchange.
 
The International Mountain Museum is located in the Ratopairo area of Pokhara. It was founded by the Nepal Mountaineering Association and officially inaugurated on 5 February 2004. The museum preserves and presents the history, culture, geography, ecology, and mountaineering heritage of mountain regions from around the world.
 

14/08/2026

14/08/2026

🇳🇵🇷🇺 A Warm Welcome in Pokhara

On 14 August 2026, a Welcome Tea and Interactive Session was held in Pokhara with members of the Nepal–Russia Friendship Society (Pokhara Chapter) and Mitra Kunj (Pokhara Chapter). Taking part in the event was Anastasia Khokhlova, Counsellor of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Nepal and Director of the Russian House in Kathmandu.

Opening remarks were delivered by Keshab Raj Lamsal, President of the Nepal–Russia Friendship Society, and Laxmi Prasad Tripathi, Vice-President of Mitra Kunj, who outlined their organizations’ work and their contribution to strengthening people-to-people diplomacy between Nepal and Russia.

Participants looked back on past years’ events, shared experiences, and explored new avenues for cooperation – in the fields of culture, education, science and technology, and youth engagement. Particular attention was given to developing meaningful initiatives specifically for Pokhara.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to jointly developing programs that strengthen cultural and educational cooperation between the peoples of Nepal and Russia at the local level.

We thank the Nepal–Russia Friendship Society and Mitra Kunj for their warm welcome, substantive dialogue, and continued support. Ahead – new joint projects! 🤝

12/08/2026

August 12 is observed as International Youth Day.

This date was established by the UN General Assembly on 17 December 1999. It is dedicated not only to protecting young people and their interests, but also to encouraging young people’s participation in society.

The purpose of the day is to remind people of the role young people play in development and peacebuilding, and to draw attention to the everyday problems they face.

Today there are about 1.2 billion young people worldwide aged 15 to 24 — roughly 16% of the global population — and this figure is projected to grow by another 7% by 2030.

Each year International Youth Day is observed under a specific theme that reflects young people’s current concerns and priorities. Themes can range from education and employment issues to environmental and mental health challenges.

The theme for 2026 is «Different Contexts, Common Aspirations».

This theme conveys the idea that, although young people’s lives are shaped by different national and local realities, their aspirations are remarkably similar — across countries and communities young people seek dignity, opportunities, meaningful participation in civic life, decent work, quality education, and a sustainable future. This year special attention is given to youth from the least developed countries, landlocked developing countries, and small island developing states.

Each year on the day of the celebration large city- and national-level concerts and competitions take place. In many countries governments and international organizations run charity events on this day. Students, pupils, and young professionals enjoy various perks on Youth Day: free entry to ticketed or very expensive exhibitions, discounts at leisure venues. Squares and parks become hubs for mass games, quests, flash mobs, and themed photo zones.

11/08/2026

Applications from foreign citizens for the main enlightenment prize Znanie. Award — 2026 are now accepted.

Russian «Znanie» Society invites foreign citizens to compete for the title of «Foreign Enlightener Of The Year».

The award is meant for foreign citizens involved in the activities to follow:

- being involved in various enlightenment activities, including being a teacher, professor, scientist, journalist, blogger/vlogger, translator, coach, political scientist, etc.;
- contributing to continuous development and strengthening of Russia's international relations;
- unbiased coverage of the facts of the Russian history;
- promoting new projects and developments aimed at strengthening Russia’s position on the international arena in various fields.

Applications can be submitted on: https://clck.ru/3T8LBp.

If you know an eligible candidate for the award to praise their educational activities, feel free to inform us about them in the comments to this post or follow the link to nominate this person yourself.

#ЗнаниеПремия

11/08/2026

🇷🇺🤝🇳🇵 A NEW CHAPTER IN NEPAL–RUSSIA FRIENDSHIP

On August 11, 2026, in the year marking the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Russia, the Russian House in Kathmandu hosted the formal inauguration of a new partner organization — the Nepal–Russia Youth Club (NRYC).

The founding of the Club is an important event and a landmark step in the development of the two countries' long-standing friendship. The new organization is designed to bring together young people interested in advancing cooperation in science, technology, education, culture, innovation, entrepreneurship and professional development.

The Nepal–Russia Youth Club is envisioned as an open, dynamic platform where young people can bring their own ideas and projects to life, find like-minded peers, exchange experience and build new connections. Special attention will be given to exploring the rich cultural and intellectual heritage of both Nepal and Russia.

The inauguration ceremony brought together distinguished representatives of Nepal–Russia friendship, science, technology, literature and cultural cooperation:

🔹 Ganesh Shah – former Minister, President of the Nepal–Russia Science and Technology Society
🔹 Ram Bindu Shrestha – Vice-President of Mitra Kunj, General Secretary of the Nepal–Russia Literature Society
🔹 Swaraj Shakya – General Secretary of the Nepal–Russia Friendship and Cultural Association
🔹 Shashwat Guragain – President of the Nepal–Russia Youth Club
🔹 Samrat Gauchan – Patron of the Nepal–Russia Youth Club

Speaking at the ceremony, the Director of the Russian House in Kathmandu, Anastasia Khokhlova, noted that the founding of the Nepal–Russia Youth Club, timed to the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, opens a new and promising chapter in the history of Nepal–Russia friendship.

"The Russian House here in Kathmandu is open to Nepal, to Nepali youth and their initiatives. It's a space where you can grow your skills for the benefit of your country, and build connections with Russia, with the countries of Eurasia, and with the world.

Come to us with your ideas. It doesn't matter whether they relate to fashion, agri-tech, music, dance, or any other field. Even if you're missing experience, or need a university's support or help finding a grant, we're ready to help you take the first steps.

We don't want you to just draw up plans and then report on how you carried them out. We want you to do what you truly love — and we'll help your ideas grow and come to life".

Anastasia Khokhlova emphasized that the Russian House also gives young people access to information on scholarship programs for bachelor's and master's studies at Russian universities, invitations to the International Youth Festival, specialized conferences, and other international events for media representatives, bloggers, researchers and professional communities.

According to her, the Russian House aims to become a platform where young people can not only gain knowledge, but also find partners, develop their own projects, and turn initiatives into lasting programs of cooperation.

The distinguished guests congratulated the Club on its founding and expressed their readiness to support its work, exchange experience, and jointly develop youth, educational, scientific, technological and cultural cooperation between Nepal and Russia.

Marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations, Nepal and Russia are not only looking back at their shared history, but also passing the next chapter of their bilateral friendship on to a new generation. The energy, courage and creative potential of Nepali youth can turn the Club into a vibrant platform for friendship, knowledge, innovation and international cooperation.

11/08/2026

On 20 July 2026, Nepal and Russia celebrated the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. Over the decades, ties between the two countries have developed across the political, cultural, educational and humanitarian spheres. Diplomatic relations were established on 20 July 1956.

To mark the anniversary, The Nepal Weekly reports on commemorative events held in Moscow, the participation of Mitra Kunj Nepal, and the contribution of public and cultural initiatives to strengthening friendship between the peoples of Nepal and Russia.

The article also highlights the Nepali delegation’s visit to a Buddhist temple in St. Petersburg and the construction of a monastery in Lumbini, which will serve as a symbol of the longstanding cultural ties and mutual respect between the two countries.

Read the full article on The Nepal Weekly: https://thenepalweekly.com/observing-70th-anniversary-of-nepal-russia-relations/.