Kathmandu : The Centre for Social Innovation and Foreign Policy (CESIF) organized a national seminar on AI and Diplomacy at Basera Boutique Hotel, Kathmandu. The event focused on CESIF’s research findings on Artificial Intelligence and Diplomacy: A Case for Nepal’s AI Diplomacy, conducted by Research Fellows Mahesh Kushwaha, Rajib Neupane, and Arya Khanal.

CESIF Executive Chairperson Amb. Vijay Kant Karna inaugurated the seminar, emphasizing AI’s growing influence on global relations and urging Nepal to formulate a robust AI policy. Presenting the research findings, Mahesh Kumar Kushwaha highlighted AI’s transformative role in geopolitics and diplomacy, stressing the need for Nepal to adapt to AI-driven negotiations.

Rajib Neupane called for a strategic AI diplomacy approach, addressing Nepal’s challenges in human resources and infrastructure. He advocated for a national AI strategy, investment in digital literacy, and strategic hedging to balance global tech relations.

A panel discussion followed, moderated by Sajana Baral, featuring Amb. Dinesh Bhattarai, Dr. Rajib Subba, Dr. Bal Krishna Bal, and Mr. Rojesh Shikhrakar. Amb. Bhattarai underscored AI’s role in modern diplomacy, urging Nepal to integrate AI into foreign services. Mr. Shikhrakar discussed AI’s potential in crisis response, healthcare, and digitalization, cautioning against Nepal’s overreliance on India and China for AI policy direction.

Dr. Subba highlighted AI’s growing importance in national security, with Nepal facing rising cybersecurity threats, including deepfake crimes. Dr. Bal stressed ethical AI development, data protection, and transparency. Closing remarks were delivered by CESIF Research Intern Shambhavi Shiwakoti, who called for cross-sector collaboration and strong governance in AI policymaking.

The event was attended by over a hundred participants, including policymakers, business leaders, bureaucrats, journalists, and students, marking an important step toward shaping Nepal’s AI diplomacy strategy.