KATHMANDU, June 2: Visiting US Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy, Sarah B. Rogers, has rejected allegations that the United States played any role in last year’s Gen Z-led protests in Nepal, calling such claims "entirely false."
Responding to a question from journalists in Kathmandu on Monday, Rogers said Washington frequently faces similar accusations in different countries and that allegations linking the US to the protests in Nepal had no basis. "The United States hears allegations like this all the time, and I reviewed them in Nepal and they're entirely false," she said before wrapping up her two-day visit.
The question referred to claims made by a section of people that the US may have been involved in or influenced the Gen Z protests, which were sparked in part by public concerns over proposed social media regulations and restrictions.
While dismissing the allegations, Rogers said the US strongly supports digital and technological freedom around the world. "The United States does prioritize tech freedom," she said, adding that Washington remains willing to work with governments on issues related to technology and digital freedoms.
Rogers, who previously worked as a lawyer defending free speech and opposing social media censorship before joining the US government, said her personal and professional background reinforced her commitment to internet freedom and open expression.
Asked about the participation of members and alumni of US-sponsored US Youth Council programmes in public movements and political activities, Rogers said it was natural for such individuals to emerge in leadership roles. "It is not surprising to see USYC members and alumni in prominent roles because, when we choose participants in these programmes, we look for up-and-coming young leaders who show initiative, who are capable, who are smart," she said.
Her remarks come amid public debate surrounding Nepal's recent Gen Z-led protests, during which some commentators alleged foreign influence because several participants had previously been involved in US-supported leadership and exchange programmes.
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Rogers said her visit to Nepal was part of a broader effort to strengthen public diplomacy engagement and people-to-people ties between Nepal and the United States. Speaking about her meetings with Nepali officials, Rogers said discussions focused on strengthening economic cooperation, improving Nepal's business environment, and expanding digital connectivity.
She said she held productive meetings with Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal and Minister for Communications and Information Technology Dr. Bikram Timilsina, during which both sides discussed technology, investment, and future areas of cooperation.
Rogers said the US remains strongly committed to its $500 million Millennium Challenge Corporation compact in Nepal, describing it as a flagship example of co-investment in infrastructure and energy.
She also noted a broader shift in US foreign assistance policy, stating that traditional aid mechanisms such as USAID have been replaced by a new structure within the State Department, with greater emphasis on “trade over aid” and partnership-based development.
Rogers highlighted what she described as Nepal's growing momentum in the technology sector, saying she met local entrepreneurs and saw increasing interest in data centres, artificial intelligence and digital investment. "What I loved most on this visit, apart from Patan Durbar Square, was the momentum the country has shown toward encouraging tech investment and tech partnership," she said.
Rogers added that US engagement with Nepal’s private sector also included discussions with business leaders, the American Chamber of Commerce, and alumni of US exchange programmes.
The US Under Secretary, who described herself as a former lawyer working on free speech and digital rights, said her current policy focus aligns closely with promoting tech freedom, innovation and open digital ecosystems.
Rogers also spoke at the Ascent Summit under the “Freedom is 250” initiative, linking American traditions of exploration and adventure with Nepal’s Himalayan identity. She said the summit reflected shared values of courage, curiosity and discovery between the two countries.
Addressing concerns over social media regulation and misinformation, Rogers argued that democratic societies must avoid censorship while strengthening information integrity. She said governments should focus on exposing disinformation rather than restricting speech, warning against state pressure on platforms to remove content.
"The people of the United States are committed to internet freedom, which means the government doesn't dictate what you are allowed to think, say, or see online," she said.
At the same time, she suggested that emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, could help users identify false or manipulated information and improve public understanding.
Rogers also referred to growing US private sector interest in Nepal’s digital infrastructure, including improved connectivity and satellite-based internet services. While declining to comment on individual companies, she said decisions on such investments rest with Nepal and the respective firms, reaffirming respect for Nepal’s sovereignty.
In this context, she noted discussions around global connectivity providers such as Starlink, while stressing that regulatory and commercial decisions remain sovereign matters for Nepal.
The Under Secretary also highlighted growing people-to-people ties between the two countries, noting that 112,000 Americans visited Nepal in 2025, making the United States Nepal’s second-largest tourism source market.
She said cultural diplomacy remains a key pillar of US engagement in Nepal, citing American support for heritage preservation in Patan Durbar Square through the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation.
Rogers said she was particularly moved by the continuity of craftsmanship in post-earthquake reconstruction, where descendants of original artisans were involved in restoring temple carvings.
Asked about Nepal’s complex geopolitical environment, Rogers said her visit focused strictly on bilateral relations between the United States and Nepal. Rogers expressed optimism about the future of bilateral ties as the two countries prepare to mark 80 years of diplomatic relations next year, saying both sides are exploring opportunities for deeper cooperation in technology, trade and cultural exchange.
