Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, who arrived on a two-day state visit to Nepal on Tuesday afternoon, and President Ramchandra Paudel held talks at the Office of the President.

During the meeting, matters related to bilateral interests and diplomatic relations were discussed.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Narayan Kaji Shrestha, Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Shakti Bahadur Basnet and other officials were also present at the delegation-level meeting.

The emir reached Sheetal Niwas directly from the Tribhuvan International Airport, where he was welcomed by President Paudel, Vice President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal and other senior government officials.

The emir then left for Soaltee Hotel for a state banquet hosted by the President in his honour.

He will hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Dahal on Wednesday. Following the talks, both leaders will witness the signing ceremony of bilateral agreements and memorandums of understanding, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

Kathmandu has been adorned with welcome gates and banners along major roads and intersections in honour of the high-profile dignitary from Qatar.