PM reiterates Nepal’s commitment to good governance

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, July.1: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli addressed the closing ceremony of the Civil Society Forum for Financing for Development (FFD4) in Spain on Sunday.

He said civil society is a vital force in achieving the 2030 Agenda and must be recognised not just as a stakeholder but as a partner in driving real change.

“Civil society pushes progress beyond promises. You ensure that equity and accountability are more than just aspirations. You amplify voices that are often unheard. You are not just participants. You are catalysts of change,” said PM Oli, according to a statement issued by his secretariat. The Prime Minister expressed deep appreciation for the support civil society has shown throughout Nepal’s role as co-facilitator of the forum’s outcome document. 

“Your unwavering contribution has strengthened the inclusivity of the UN process. Your voice has enriched the outcome document. We are grateful for your continued engagement, which has found expression in the Sevilla commitment,” said PM Oli. 

Speaking about the Sevilla commitment, set to be formally adopted on Monday, Oli described it as a fresh and urgent framework to address the global challenges of development financing. “The Commitment recognises the urgency of closing the $4 trillion SDG financing gap. It lays out bold steps to catalyse investment and reform,” he said.

PM Oli explained that the document calls for tripling Multilateral Development Bank lending to boost social investments and drive transformative growth. 

“It also doubles efforts to help countries reach at least a 15 per cent tax-to-GDP ratio. We are also aiming to mobilise private capital to generate decent jobs and promote inclusive growth,” he said.

Addressing the issue of debt, PM Oli said, “We must lower the cost of borrowing to free up resources for development. We need greater transparency to prevent future debt crises. And debtor countries must have a stronger voice in shaping the global debt architecture.”

PM Oli added that inclusive reform of international financial institutions is necessary. “Developing countries deserve a seat at the table in global financial decision-making. We must expand access to emergency financing so that all countries can respond better to shocks and crises,” he said.

PM Oli acknowledged that many commitments remain unmet, especially in development cooperation, debt sustainability, and reform of the international financial system. “Still, we recognise the progress we have made and the momentum we must now sustain. Let us not grow complacent. Let us push together for broader and deeper reforms,” he said.

He reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to good governance, transparency, rule of law, human rights, and multilateralism. 

“We have created space for civil society to participate meaningfully, in national development, public policy dialogue, and democratic governance,” said PM Oli. PM Oli called for global cooperation and action. “Together, we can deliver better outcomes on our promises, for a just, equitable, and sustainable future, leaving no one behind,” he said.