Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Nepal)

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA; परराष्ट्र मन्त्रालय) is responsible for conducting external affairs of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal. Ministry of Foreign Affairs represents other line ministries and the Government of Nepal while dealing with other states.

History
Nepal first established diplomatic relations with the United Kingdom in 1816. Nepal later established diplomatic relations in 1947 with India and USA. Moreover, with France in April 1949.

Roles, responsibility, and function
According to Government of Nepal (Allocation of Business) Rules, 2069 (2012) Ministry of Foreign Affairs has the following roles, responsibility, and function:
 * Formulation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of foreign policy, plan and programs of Nepal
 * Relation with foreign nations
 * Representation of Nepal in foreign countries
 * Publicity of Nepal in foreign countries
 * Passport and visa to be issued in abroad
 * Hospitality Management
 * Protocol
 * Claim over a person of a Nepali or foreign citizen by the respective governments.
 * Diplomatic protection (immunities) and privileges
 * Record of Nepali citizens who are in abroad and their right, interest and protection.
 * Non-resident Nepalese
 * Economic diplomacy
 * Development and promotion of public and non-governmental organizations at international level
 * Consular practice
 * United Nations, South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation and other international and regional organization
 * Foreign diplomatic mission in Nepal
 * Negotiation and agreement at diplomatic level (on the matters which do not fall under any other ministry)
 * Operation of Nepal foreign service.

The principle of Panchasheel
Panchasheel made up of Sanskrit word generally refers to the set of five rules or principles to be followed. It is the main principle of foreign affairs of Nepal. Its main goal is to create a peaceful diplomatic relationship between fellow countries and to build a stronger and warmer relations.

Set of five rules

 * Respect of the territorial integrity and sovereignty.
 * No interference in the internal affairs of the countries.
 * Not invading countries.
 * Enhancement of mutual cooperation and benefits.
 * Adherence to the policy of peaceful coexistence.

Organisational structure
There are two departments under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
 * 1) Department of Passport, Narayanhiti, Kathmandu  (website)
 * 2) Department of Consular Services, Tripureshwor, Kathmandu (website)

The Ministry has operated a Liaison Office in the border town of Birgunj since 2005.

The Ministry operates the Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA) in Tripureshwor, Kathmandu.