Kathmandu, March 13 -- At a time when the diplomatic code of conduct has been gathering dust for almost 14 years, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday conducted an orientation for officials from various ministries.

The foreign ministry has repeatedly urged ministries to adhere to the diplomatic code of conduct for systematic and dignified meetings with foreign leaders, officials as well as diplomatic contacts and communications. But the code has rarely been enforced and this has drawn criticism from political leaders, civil society members, media, experts and others.

On the occasion, foreign Secretary Amrit Rai highlighted the importance of respecting the diplomatic code of conduct citing global practice. Likewise, the Departmen...