Nepal and Sri Lanka

Nepal and the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka established diplomatic relations on July 1, 1957. The relationship between the two countries is characterized by goodwill, mutual understanding, and cooperation. Both Nepal and Sri Lanka are founding members of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and are also part of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC). The two nations share similar views on many international issues and collaborate closely at various international forums, including the United Nations (UN), the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), and the World Trade Organization (WTO), among others.

The visits of high-level political leaders, academics, business people, social workers, and Buddhist philosophers from both countries have significantly strengthened the already positive relationship between the two nations.

Nepal and Sri Lanka initially signed an Air Service Agreement in 1977. Our economic relations date back to April 3, 1979, when the two countries entered into a bilateral Trade Agreement. Cultural and religious ties have also fostered a closer relationship between the people of both nations. In July 1999, they signed a Cultural Agreement, and the Agreement on the Avoidance of Double Taxation was signed the same year. This agreement is essential for expanding investments and further enhancing trade relations between the two countries.

Every year, thousands of Sri Lankan Buddhists travel to Lumbini for pilgrimage, while a notable number of Nepalese Buddhist monks reside in Sri Lanka for religious and educational purposes. This has strengthened the bond between the people of both countries.