Visiting US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Samir Paul Kapur has concluded his Nepal visit on Wednesday, holding a series of high-level meetings focused on expanding American investment, trade ties and technology cooperation.

Kapur met Rastriya Swatantra Party Chair Rabi Lamichhane, Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal and Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle during his three-day visit, where discussions centred on strengthening bilateral relations and improving Nepal’s investment climate.

According to the US Embassy in Kathmandu, Kapur discussed opportunities for deeper commercial engagement, including participation in the upcoming SelectUSA Investment Summit, and encouraged Nepali delegates to explore US investment channels. He also held interactions with private sector representatives on expanding cooperation in Nepal’s growing technology sector, including digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

In a post on X, Kapur said he had a “productive discussion” with Finance Minister Wagle on improving the business environment and attracting US companies, adding that closer ties would support Nepal’s transport, energy and digital infrastructure.

Nepali ministers, during separate meetings, emphasised that their priority is to attract direct foreign investment rather than traditional development assistance. They also assured the US side of plans to amend existing laws and introduce new legislation to make Nepal more investment-friendly.

During the meeting with Wagle, Kapur also raised tax-related issues involving US-based IT firm Cotiviti, along with other multinational companies. Wagle said such matters would be resolved through legal procedures, according to officials.

Officials present in the meetings said both sides focused heavily on job creation and economic growth, with Nepali leaders stressing that increased investment from friendly countries such as the US is key to meeting development targets. Kapur, in response, said Washington would encourage investment if Nepal ensures a predictable and conducive policy environment.

Kapur also met Foreign Minister Khanal, where discussions included trade expansion, investment flows and cooperation on issues such as illegal immigration and human trafficking. Khanal said Nepal was prioritising economic reforms and infrastructure development, while also seeking to reach middle-income status within the next decade.

Beyond official meetings, Kapur also interacted with representatives of the American Chamber of Commerce in Nepal, where he discussed expanding US business presence in the ICT sector.

As part of his visit, Kapur toured Boudhanath Stupa and Patan Durbar Square, heritage sites restored with support from the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation.

The visit also touched on sensitive regional issues. Kapur reportedly raised concerns regarding the situation of Tibetan refugees in Nepal, urging steps such as issuing identity cards to facilitate access to services and formal economic activity. Nepali officials responded that the matter remains sensitive due to regional considerations, particularly relations with China, while reaffirming Nepal’s humanitarian approach.

Chinese concerns over Tibetan activities in Nepal were also referenced during recent diplomatic exchanges with Beijing, underscoring the balancing act Kathmandu faces between major partners.

The US side, meanwhile, said it remained committed to supporting Nepal’s reform agenda and strengthening long-term economic cooperation through both public and private sector engagement.