A senior United States diplomat has arrived in Nepal for a three-day visit, marking a significant moment in bilateral relations following the formation of the new government.
Samir Paul Kapur, the US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, reached Kathmandu on Monday. His visit is the highest-level diplomatic engagement from Washington since Balendra Shah assumed office as prime minister in late March.
During his stay, Kapur is expected to hold a series of meetings with government officials, political leaders, business representatives and cultural figures. Discussions are likely to focus on strengthening cooperation between Nepal and the United States across multiple sectors.
Soon after his arrival, Kapur was briefed at the US Embassy in Kathmandu before meeting leaders of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, including its chair. He also interacted with members of the American Chamber of Commerce in Nepal, where conversations centred on expanding US investment and business opportunities, particularly in Nepal’s growing information and communication technology sector.
Key areas of interest include improving digital infrastructure, advancing artificial intelligence adoption, and enhancing cybersecurity collaboration. The visit reflects increasing US interest in Nepal’s economic and technological landscape.
On Tuesday, Kapur is scheduled to meet Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle and Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal. These meetings are expected to provide an opportunity for the new government to outline its priorities while also understanding Washington’s approach to future cooperation.
Officials say this is the first time a US assistant secretary has made a standalone visit to Nepal, rather than combining it with regional travel. The visit signals a renewed push to deepen engagement at a time of political transition in Kathmandu.
