Culture & Lifestyle
Former foreign minister Thapa unveils memoir
The memoir was jointly launched by Thapa, co-author and journalist Hari Bahadur Thapa, federal parliamentary members Swarnim Wagle and Sumana Shrestha, and journalist and writer Sudheer Sharma.Post Report
Former foreign minister Bhekh Bahadur Thapa unveiled his memoir titled ‘Rashtra-Pararashtra: Ektantradekhi Ganatantrasamma’ on Tuesday. It was jointly launched by Thapa, co-author and journalist Hari Bahadur Thapa, federal parliamentary members Swarnim Wagle and Sumana Shrestha, and journalist and writer Sudheer Sharma.
In the book, Thapa recounts his experiences from the Panchayat era to the two People’s Movements, the Constituent Assembly, governance arrangements after the promulgation of the new constitution in 2015 and diplomatic developments in the period spanning decades.
Having served as the governor of Nepal Rastra Bank, finance minister, finance secretary, ambassador to India and the United States, and later foreign affairs minister, Thapa, in his autobiography, delves into the responsibilities he took within Nepal’s governance system.
The writer attributed the book to the continuous inspiration from family and friends. He highlighted the book’s coverage of political, economic, foreign policy and diplomatic aspects.
“I’ve aimed to include not just my personal opinions but also important national events from my practical life. I believe our generation’s efforts have laid the foundation for Nepal's future,” said Thapa.
Wagle commented on the book’s significance, emphasising the need to read it within the context of the environment, profession and characters it describes. He praised Thapa for laying the foundation of the modern economy and balancing public responsibilities and personal desires, citing Thapa’s adept use of international networks for the country’s benefit.
Shrestha likened reading the book to watching an action movie, suggesting the possibility of another part. She expressed the potential for learning among her generation and appreciated Thapa’s diplomatic works.
Journalist and writer Sharma acknowledged Thapa’s work as both an economist and diplomat, noting his continuous involvement in foreign affairs for over six decades.