German Embassy in Kathmandu denies summoning Nepalese diplomat over e-passport issue

The German Embassy in Kathmandu has expressed serious concern over various media reports regarding the procurement and printing process of Nepal’s electronic passports (e-passports). In a clarification issued via social media platform Facebook, the embassy claimed that some of the reports and news circulating on this matter are misleading and incorrect.

According to the German Embassy, the Charge d’Affaires of the Nepalese Embassy in Berlin, Sagar Prasad Phuyal, was not summoned by the German Federal Foreign Office for a diplomatic reprimand or explanation, but was merely invited for a regular meeting. The embassy emphasized that although this may seem like a minor distinction in diplomatic terms, it carries significant meaning and sensitivity.

The embassy has also completely rejected reports suggesting that Germany handed over a protest note to the Nepalese government. It clarified that no protest note or other diplomatic documents were handed over to the government during the meeting.

Furthermore, the embassy made it clear that Germany has not issued any warnings regarding potential impacts or outcomes related to ongoing legal proceedings or possible court decisions in Nepal. Germany reiterated its full respect for the independence of Nepal’s judiciary.

“The independence of the judiciary is a fundamental principle enshrined in our constitution,” the embassy stated, adding, “In line with established diplomatic norms, the German Embassy does not comment on cases pending in court, and no such comments have been made in this instance.”

The issue gained attention after Nepal’s Department of Passports awarded contracts to German companies Veridos and Muhlbauer for the supply of e-passports and installation of biometric systems. The matter took on diplomatic and political dimensions following the filing of corruption charges by Nepal’s Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority against officials from the Department of Passports and local representatives of the German companies, alleging irregularities in the contract process.

The German Embassy issued this official clarification to dispel rumors of diplomatic misunderstandings circulating in the market related to this issue.