KATHMANDU, Jan 10: As he bids farewell to Nepal after completing his diplomatic assignment, outgoing US Ambassador Dean R. Thompson shared heartfelt reflections on the country and its people, saying the world would be “a much better place” if more people acted like Nepalis.
Speaking at a farewell reception organised by the US Embassy in the capital on Saturday, Thompson described the warmth, hospitality and spirit he and his team have experienced over the past three and a half years as deeply moving.
“The incredible friendship and hospitality we have been shown wherever we go has touched us deeply,” he said. “We will try to emulate that spirit, because if more people in the world acted like Nepal and Nepalis, it would be a much better world, in my opinion.”
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Thompson admitted that the prospects of leaving Nepal made him “extremely sad,” but he also felt “extremely proud” of the achievements made in partnership with the government, private sector, civil society and development partners. Reflecting on his early days in Nepal, he recalled questions—and even doubts—about US intentions. “We worked together to tell the story of the Nepal–US relationship and its importance, not just for Nepal, but for the region and the United States,” he said.
He also said that though he and his team are returning home, they will remain supporters of Nepal from afar. “We will carry a part of Nepal with us wherever we go and we will continue to love the country and its people,” Thompson said.
The farewell reception brought together a wide spectrum of Nepali society, including the Chief of the Army Staff, the Chief Justice, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, private sector leaders and development partners. Thompson expressed gratitude for their presence, noting the memories and milestones that came flooding back as he moved through the receiving line.
Reflecting on the past year, which saw significant changes in US policies and priorities, Thompson reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to supporting Nepal’s development. He highlighted private-sector-led growth, improved policies and better infrastructure as key elements in creating an economy where people want to stay, build and return.
The US has yet to announce a new ambassador to Nepal. In the meantime, Deputy Chief of Mission Scott Urbom, who recently arrived in Kathmandu, will serve as Chargé d’affaires at the US Embassy.
Thompson said he would carry the memories, friendships and lessons from Nepal in his heart for a long time. “We will miss you terribly and we will remember you fondly,” he said, leaving an enduring message of admiration for the Nepali people and their spirit.
In his brief remarks, Deputy Chief of Mission Scott Urbom said he would do his best to build on the successes of Ambassador Thompson and his team. “I know the partnership between the United States and Nepal is the result of decades of hard work by many—from civil society, government, and the private sector, including many of you here. I look forward to getting to know all of you, to work with you, and to build together,” he said.
