Nepal aims to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status by 2026 and is promoting sustainable development through strengthened cooperation with Japan.
Japan supports Nepal in various fields, including economic growth, disaster preparedness, and democratic strengthening, particularly through Official Development Assistance (ODA) provided through JICA.
The two countries plan to further develop their cooperative relationship in commemoration of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026, expanding economic, cultural, and people-to-people exchanges to build a new partnership.
Nepal aims to graduate from the status of a Least Developed Country (LDC) in 2026. To achieve this, it hopes to strengthen cooperation with Japan. Japan has provided support in various fields for Nepal's sustainable development for a long time and has expressed its intention to continue this cooperation in the future.
Nepal currently holds the status of a Least Developed Country, but it has been experiencing rapid economic growth in recent years, preparing to enter the ranks of developing countries. However, significant disparities and challenges still persist, requiring the support of the international community. Improvements are urgently needed, especially in areas such as basic infrastructure, education, health, sanitation, and disaster preparedness.
Considering Nepal's circumstances, Japan has provided development cooperation in various fields over the past few decades. The current Japan's Country Development Cooperation Policy for Nepal prioritizes three main areas: economic growth and poverty reduction, disaster prevention and climate change countermeasures, and strengthening democracy and governance. To achieve this, Japan implements support projects in a wide range of areas, including transportation, energy, water resources, industry, agriculture, education, healthcare, and social services.
Specifically, Japan has established a diverse support system through JICA, including grant aid, technical cooperation, grant assistance through the embassy, NGO support, contributions to international organizations, and scholarship programs. This comprehensive approach ensures that support is tailored to Nepal's specific circumstances and needs.
Recently, Nepal has shown vulnerability to natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and droughts. In response, Japan is strengthening cooperation in areas like disaster management, disaster prevention measures, and forest restoration. It is also dedicating its efforts to supporting the establishment of a democratic foundation, including the rule of law and local governance.
Meanwhile, there is a growing trend of Japanese companies entering and investing in Nepal's private sector. This is expected to further expand economic, trade, and commercial cooperation. 2026 marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Nepal, presenting a valuable opportunity to elevate the bilateral partnership.
Human exchange between the two countries is also thriving. Celebrating the 120th anniversary of sending Nepalese students to Japan and the 50th anniversary of JAAN (ネパールJICA帰国研修員同窓会), the private-sector human network is becoming increasingly dense. Beyond diplomacy, platforms for mutual understanding and collaboration are being created in various fields, including economics and culture.
Nepal is approaching the graduation from LDC status in 2026. However, numerous challenges remain. Nepal plans to address these issues through cooperation with Japan, a leading global aid provider, and utilize this collaboration to drive economic development and improve the lives of its citizens. Building on the 70 years of friendly cooperation, Nepal aims to establish a new partnership with Japan.
