Kathmandu. KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Sushila Karki in a telephone conversation with President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan today expressed concern about the safety and security of Nepali nationals in the UAE.

In a telephonic conversation this afternoon, Prime Minister Karki extended best wishes for peace, justice and goodwill on the occasion of Ramadan. During the dialogue, she condemned the attacks on civilian infrastructure in the sovereign territory of the UAE and expressed solidarity on behalf of Nepal in this difficult situation.

The Prime Minister has called on all sides concerned to exercise restraint, not to escalate further tension and ensure the security of the citizens. “War is never an alternative to peace,” she said, adding that lasting peace would be possible only through diplomacy and dialogue.

She also expressed her gratitude to the UAE Government for ensuring the safety of all residents, visitors and passengers in transit including Nepali working and residing in UAE. She also expressed sorrow over the death of a Nepali national while on duty at Zayed International Airport on March 1.

Stating that Nepal is not a direct party to the regional tensions, Nepal has been facing its effects due to security of Nepali citizens, rising fuel prices, contraction in investment flow and inflation, the Prime Minister said.

During the conversation, President Al Nahyan thanked Nepal for solidarity and sympathy at this difficult time and expressed that the UAE government was committed to ensuring the safety and security of Nepali citizens. Expressing satisfaction over the cordial relations between Nepal and UAE, he praised the hardworking nature and good conduct of Nepalis.

President Al Nahyan said he has received information that some Nepalis want to return home and assured that assistance would be provided for facilitating the situation once the situation eases in this country. The talks between Prime Minister Karki and President Al-Nahyan were held in a cordial atmosphere.