Ambassador Bharat Raj Paudyal welcomed a large number of guests to mark the Nepal Army Day at a reception in Islamabad Serena Hotel this week.

The chief guest was Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed, Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Defence.

Pakistan and Nepal have had diplomatic relations since 1960s, with the exchange of ambassadors in 1963, temporarily severed after Nepal recognized Bangladesh in 1972. There is close cooperation between the two countries in trade, defence, higher education, tourism, and other fields.

“It is always a pleasure to attend Nepalese events,” said a Pakistani woman.

“I find the national dresses that are worn special and beautiful, with an ethnic touch to them.” Another woman said, “The Nepalese cuisine has special flavours, a bit different from other delicacies of the sub-continent. Besides, the Nepalese hospitality and friendliness are unsurpassed.”

Published in Dawn, March 13th, 2016