Balendra Shah is breaking with the tradition of the airport farewell

Summary

Prime Minister Balendra Shah will leave for New York without the customary airport farewell ceremony, breaking with a long-standing diplomatic tradition. He will lead Nepal’s delegation to the 81st United Nations General Assembly and is scheduled to meet UN Secretary-General António Guterres during his stay.

Key Points
  • Balendra Shah will travel to New York via Doha to lead Nepal’s delegation to the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
  • There will be no guard of honour, red carpet or formal airport farewell at Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Officials said the decision reflects both the devastation caused by the Bhotekoshi floods and Shah’s desire to follow international practice.
  • Shah is scheduled to address the UN General Debate on September 24 and return to Kathmandu on September 26.
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