New York, Sept 26: Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali said on Thursday that as a founding member, Nepal upheld the ideals and principles of the non-aligned movement (NAM) as time-tested values for peace and cooperation. "It is for this reason that the principles of NAM have found a place as the guiding principles of Nepal’s foreign policy. Nepal believes that sovereign equality, independence, territorial integrity and non-interference in the internal affairs of States are sacrosanct," he underscored.
Addressing the NAM ministerial meeting in New York on Thursday, Minister Gyawali, who is here to attend the UNGA, viewed upholding international law and respecting those values are indispensable for creating a peaceful world where international trade, investment and cooperation can flourish.
He stressed the unity and solidarity among the NAM members for collective wellbeing. "This can help safeguard their independence and sovereignty and promote mutual respect, cooperation and coexistence among nations," he added.
Meanwhile, during the ministerial breakfast of the Group of Friends of Mediation, Foreign Minister observed rapid development and proliferation of frontier technologies has been impacting virtually every sphere of human society. "The fields of war and conflict have not remained immune from the use of such technology. Proper use of technology can positively facilitate the work of the mediators. It potentially enhances the voice, outreach, participation, and inclusion of the critical stakeholders in the process. Frontier technologies ease contact, communication, interface, verification and raises empowerment of the parties," he argued.
According to him, the mediators should be equipped with the best tools available for averting violent conflicts, avoiding miscalculation and misunderstanding among the parties.
Similarly, the prudent use of data helps better understanding of public sentiments and informed mediation. Timely transmission and dissemination of information can be highly effective in conflict prevention, he mentioned.
The Minister further said, "Nepal appreciates the United Nations 'Cyber Mediation Initiative'. I also acknowledge the important role of the Secretary-General’s High-Level Advisory Board on Mediation."
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