Nepal Launches Diplomatic Language Training for Foreign Service Officials

Nepal’s Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA) has launched a diplomatic language training program for foreign service officials to enhance their linguistic and professional capabilities.

The program, which includes training in Chinese, French, and Arabic languages, aims to improve the officials’ ability to communicate effectively in international relations and diplomacy.

Foreign Minister Shishir Kharel inaugurated the program, emphasizing the importance of language skills in diplomacy. He noted that learning new languages broadens one’s perspective and enables them to establish relationships with new communities, exchange ideas, and promote Nepal’s interests globally.

IFA Executive Director Rozina Tamrakar highlighted the significance of language and cultural understanding in building trust, strengthening diplomatic relations, and promoting Nepal’s ‘soft power’ and public diplomacy.

The training program is being conducted in collaboration with the Confucius Institute at Tribhuvan University and the Alliance Française de Kathmandu. The Chinese language training will be held three times a week, while the French and Arabic language training will be held twice a week, with each class lasting one and a half hours.

The IFA plans to integrate foreign language training into Nepal’s diplomatic training system to enhance the linguistic and professional capabilities of foreign service officials.

Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chang Mao Ming and French Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires Elsa Calle shared their thoughts on the importance of language skills in diplomacy and the Nepal-China and Nepal-France relations.