Kevin J Allen, the new UNHCR Representative for Nepal, on Monday presented his letter of credentials to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Kamal Thapa.

Allen arrived in Nepal on June 18.

Allen began his career with the UN Refugee Agency in 1999.

Since then he has served in a number of countries including Tajikistan, Japan, Afghanistan, Mexico, Kenya and the United States.

Before coming to Nepal, he served as the UNHCR Representative for Tajikistan.

“The government and people of Nepal have a proud tradition of protecting those who are forced to flee persecution and war,” said Allen after taking up his new assignment in Nepal.

“I look forward to working with the government and UNHCR partners to continue this important work, in a spirit of collaboration and compassion,” he added.