Biratnagar/Kathmandu: The Embassy of Pakistan in collaboration with Hiranya International
Library organized the launching ceremony of a book on Pakistan’s Buddhist heritage titled “Nepal-Pakistan Buddhist Relations” authored by former Ambassador Mr. Hiranya Lal Shrestha, April 29, 2023.

Mr. Shrestha was Nepal’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation.

Mr. Jhala Nath Khanal, the former Prime Minister of Nepal, graced the event as Chief Guest while H.E. Abrar H Hashmi, Ambassador – designate of Pakistan to Nepal was the Special Guest.

Other prominent Guests who attended the book launching event included Professor Doctor Tri Ratna Manandhar, former Vice Chancellor Lumbini Buddhist University; Bhikkuni Doctor Dhamma Vijaya, co-founder of Dhamma Moli Project; Doctor Gopal Pokharel, famous culture expert and Mr.

Kirpal Shrestha, former minister besides venerable monks and Buddhist scholars.

Addressing the occasion, Mr. Jhala Nath Khanal, the former Prime Minister, highlighted the significance of cultural heritage as an important facet of people-to- people contacts. He lauded the efforts of Ambassador Hiranya Lal Shrestha and termed the Buddhist heritage as a joint legacy of both the countries.

The newly appointed Pakistan Ambassador to Nepal, His Excellency Abrar H Hashmi, appreciated the work by Mr.

Hiranya Lal Shrestha and highlighted the shared Buddhist legacy and also emphasized on the significance of cultural and historical linkages as permanent bond between Pakistan and Nepal.

Ambassador Hashmi is yet to present his diplomatic credentials to the Nepali Court. 

# Based on a press release issued by the Embassy of Pakistan dated 29 April, 2023: Ed. Upadhyaya.