Building Bridges of Peace: GPF India’s Strategic Engagement with Amb. Lok Bahadur Thapa

Meeting with Amb. Lok Bahadur Thapa, President of the UN Economic and Social Council,  in the President's chamber.

By Chetan Sharma

In an atmosphere of warmth and intellectual engagement, GPF India leadership, Dr. Markandey Rai, held a significant meeting with Ambassador Lok Bahadur Thapa, President of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). The meeting, held on 24 October 2025, Dr. Markandey Rai from 11:00 AM to 12:10 PM in the President’s Chamber, brought forth a stimulating conversation focused on peacebuilding, international diplomacy, and cooperation in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. 24 October is a very significant day as the UN was born on this day in 1945.

Amb. Thapa, an experienced diplomat with a deep understanding of South Asian geopolitics and development frameworks, shared insights on the evolving role of civil society in advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). One remarkable moment of cultural resonance emerged when Amb. Thapa mentioned a fact that brought a familiar and emotional dimension to the dialogue. His personal connection to India strengthened an atmosphere of openness and mutual respect.

The discussion also explored the evolving architecture of the Indo-Pacific Peace Forum, a platform envisioned to encourage dialogue, understanding, and strategic partnerships among countries of the region. The Ambassador showed a thoughtful interest in the initiative, reflecting openness to future participation and intellectual contribution.

Another highlight of the meeting was the formal invitation extended to Amb. Thapa to visit India as a keynote speaker and honorary guest. He was personally invited to deliver an address at two distinguished intellectual platforms: the Antar Rashtriya Sahayog Parishad (ARSP) and the India International Centre (IIC). Both institutions are renowned for hosting dignitaries, scholars, diplomats, and global leaders in discussions aimed at strengthening international cooperation and understanding.

The meeting also served as a learning opportunity for organizational protocol development. It was noted that John Dickson was absent from the discussion, and no formal introductory document from GPF HQ was presented during the engagement. This highlighted the importance of official correspondence and representation in high-level interactions moving forward.

Despite these procedural points, the conversation was highly productive and forward-looking. The spirit of the exchange affirmed that peacebuilding extends beyond political structures — it thrives through civil society, academic forums, and community leadership. The engagement demonstrated that India and Nepal share not only historical and cultural ties but also a shared vision for a peaceful and collaborative future.

As GPF India moves ahead, the engagement with Ambassador Thapa marks a valuable step toward deepening partnerships with UN-aligned institutions. It reinforces the principle that diplomacy is most effective when empowered by human connection, mutual respect, and a shared mission. With preparations underway for future engagements, this meeting stands as a milestone in nurturing meaningful and sustained dialogue between UNECOSOC leadership and GPF India’s peace-driven initiatives.