On February 27, 2026, in the busy city of Tel Aviv, an interaction that began as a formal gathering turned into a meaningful and heartfelt exchange. At the center of it was Dr. Anjan Shakya, Nepal’s former Ambassador to Israel and the first diplomat from South Asia to receive the prestigious “Ambassador of the Year” award.
The event was organized by Non-Resident Nepali Association Israel. Among the speakers were President Ganesh Giri and ICC member Ali Miya, along with several Nepali workers who had arrived in Israel through the government-to-government framework. Many of them openly shared their journeys, struggles, and achievements.
The G2G Agreement: A Turning Point for Thousands
Naturally, the main focus of the discussion was the Government-to-Government (G2G) labor agreement between Nepal and Israel. Establishing a recruitment system built on trust, transparency, and direct government oversight was not an easy task. Yet today, thousands of Nepali workers are employed in Israel without middlemen, through a clear and secure process that ensures dignity and fairness.
Many participants echoed the same sentiment: “This opportunity changed the direction of our lives.” With structured procedures and safe working conditions, they now feel confident about their future.
International Recognition, National Pride
During her tenure, Dr. Shakya strengthened not only labor diplomacy but also the broader bilateral relationship between the two nations. In recognition of her contribution, the Ambassadors’ Club of Israel honored her as “Ambassador of the Year” for 2019–20. Becoming the first recipient of this award from South Asia was not only a personal achievement, but also a proud moment for Nepal.
Call for Extension and Future Expectations
Participants, including Rajani Bista Thapa, who came to Israel under the G2G nursing program, expressed sincere gratitude for the initiatives that made their journey possible. At the same time, they requested support in extending their stay period. According to them, the experience and skills gained here would greatly benefit Nepal upon their return, and extending the duration would serve the interests of both countries.
President Ganesh Giri emphasized the need for continued advocacy on practical community issues, while ICC member Ali Miya highlighted the importance of sustained institutional efforts to safeguard workers’ rights.
The Meaning of That Meeting
The gathering was more than a ceremonial event. It was a convergence of experience, gratitude, and hope. Dr. Shakya praised the discipline and dedication of the Nepali community in Israel and reaffirmed her positive stance toward further strengthening Nepal–Israel relations and expanding labor opportunities.
Living abroad and feeling that your rights are protected is no small matter. Those who helped build that foundation leave a legacy that only grows more valuable with time.
For me, that day was not just another program. It was a meaningful moment where diplomacy, labor, and community came together on one stage.
Based in Israel, he highlights the stories and struggles of migrant workers and students, giving voice to the Nepali diaspora. Actively engaged in community initiatives, he uses journalism to raise awareness, foster empathy, and inspire positive change.
