Nepali Army Day Reception at the United Nations Highlights Peacekeeping Partnership and Military Dip

The Permanent Mission of Nepal to the United Nations hosted a reception at UN Headquarters to mark the 263rd Anniversary of Nepali Army Day and the 68th anniversary of Nepal’s partnership with the United Nations in peacekeeping operations.

The event brought together United Nations officials, ambassadors, diplomats, military and police advisers, as well as members of the Nepali community in New York.

Nepal’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations,
Lok Bahadur Thapa,delivered keynote remarks and joined
Jean-Pierre Lacroix in a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony to formally open the reception.

In his remarks, Jean-Pierre Lacroix commended the Nepali Army for its longstanding and significant contributions to United Nations peacekeeping operations. He noted that Nepali peacekeepers have consistently demonstrated professionalism, dedication, and courage in some of the world’s most challenging mission environments, playing a vital role in maintaining international peace and security.

Highlighting Nepal’s longstanding commitment, Ambassador Lok Bahadur Thapa underscored the proud legacy of the Nepali Army—one of the country’s oldest institutions, defined by service, sacrifice, and professionalism—and its vital role in safeguarding national integrity while contributing to global peace and security.

Nepal remains one of the leading troop-contributing countries to UN peacekeeping, with over 160,000 personnel having served in missions worldwide, reflecting its enduring commitment to multilateralism, the protection of civilians, and international solidarity.

Military attachés and senior defense representatives from multiple missions attended the reception, underscoring the importance of military-to-military engagement in strengthening communication and mutual trust within the multilateral system.

Among the attendees, Col. Rohit Gurung, Military Adviser of the Permanent Mission of Nepal to the United Nations, joined counterparts from various countries in exchanges that further reinforced professional dialogue and cooperation.

The participation of members of the Nepali diaspora in New York added a community dimension to the event, highlighting the role of diaspora engagement in connecting national identity with international diplomacy.

At a time of increasing global complexity, the reception reaffirmed the continued relevance of the United Nations as a platform for dialogue, cooperation, and a shared commitment to peace.