A Guide to the United States’ History of Recognition, Diplomatic, and Consular Relations, by Country, since 1776: Nepal
Summary
The United States and Nepal have enjoyed friendly relations since the United States first recognized Nepal in 1947. Since 1951, the United States has provided Nepal with economic aid. In recent years, U.S. aid to Nepal is geared toward economic development and ensuring the viability of Nepal’s democratic institutions following the abolition of the Nepalese monarchy, the creation of a representative government, and the end of a 10 year Maoist insurgency in 2006.
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Recognition
U.S. Recognition of Nepal, 1947.
The United States recognized the Kingdom of Nepal on April 21, 1947, when Joseph C. Satterthwaite presented a letter from President Harry S. Truman to His Majesty, The Maharahadhiraja, Tribhubana Bir Bikram Jung Bahadur Shah Bahadur Shum Shere Jung Deva, King of Nepal. Satterthwaite was on a special diplomatic mission to Nepal as personal representative of the President.
Diplomatic Relations
Establishment of Diplomatic Relations, 1948.
Diplomatic relations were established on February 16, 1948, when Nepal established a Legation to the United States with Commanding General Kaiser Shum Shere Jung Bahadur Rana, as Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary. The Minister also was Ambassador to Great Britain, and the entire Legation staff resided at the Nepalese Embassy in London.
Establishment of the U.S. Embassy in Nepal, 1959.
The U.S. Embassy at Kathmandu was established on August 6, 1959, with L. Douglas Heck as Chargé d’Affaires ad interim.