Nepal Recalls Six Ambassadors

Government orders return of six envoys appointed on political grounds

Tuesday, 7 April 2026, 13:03

Nepal’s Foreign Ministry office in Kathmandu amid ambassador recall decision

Nepal recalls ambassadors in six countries, directing them to return within one month as part of a move to review politically appointed envoys. According to a Ministry of Foreign Affairs official, the decision targets ambassadors appointed based on political backgrounds by the previous government.

Those asked to return include Dr. Shankar Prasad Sharma (India), Chitralekha Yadav (Australia), Dr. Purna Bahadur Nepali (Sri Lanka), Dr. Shiva Maya Tumbahangphe (South Korea), Sumnima Tuladhar (Denmark), and Kapil Shrestha (South Africa).

Officials said the move aims to reassess diplomatic appointments and align them with current government priorities. The envoys have been instructed to complete their duties and return within the given timeframe.

Decision Signals Shift in Foreign Policy Approach

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lok Bahadur Paudel Chhetri confirmed that Nepal recalls ambassadors in these six countries, though details on replacements remain unclear.

Earlier, an interim government had recalled 11 ambassadors, but those appointed on political grounds were not included, making the current decision distinct. The ambassadors were recommended in July 2024 during the tenure of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Observers say the latest move indicates a shift in how Nepal manages diplomatic appointments.

The decision to Nepal recalls ambassadors highlights efforts to restructure Nepal’s diplomatic presence and could influence future foreign policy direction.