Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba held bilateral talks with her German counterpart, Johann David Wadephul, in Berlin on Tuesday, focusing on trade, development cooperation, and aviation ties.

Minister Deuba thanked Germany for its longstanding support, describing it as a key development and trade partner.

She called for increased German investment in Nepal, particularly in fertiliser production, and stressed the need to promote private sector collaboration between the two countries, the foreign minister’s secretariat said.

Highlighting Nepal’s planned graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2026, she sought Germany’s continued support in ensuring a smooth and sustainable transition. She also requested Germany’s backing for Nepal’s candidacies to various UN bodies, including the Human Rights Council and the Security Council. Minister Wadephul assured his support on these matters.

Deuba emphasised the tourism potential between the two countries and urged the establishment of direct flights.

She noted that Germany is Nepal’s second-largest European tourist source, but the lack of direct air link has hindered growth. She called for Germany’s support in lifting the EU aviation ban on Nepali airlines.

She informed her counterpart that Nepal has tabled two reform bills in Parliament to restructure its civil aviation authority in line with EU and ICAO standards.

Wadephul expressed a willingness to help in resolving the issue.

The minister also raised concerns about climate change, calling for German cooperation in advancing Nepal’s climate justice agenda.