Rabindra Kattel - Kathmandu,Nepal — Serving as the United States Ambassador to Nepal since October 21, 2022, Honorable Dean Richard Thompson stands as one of America’s most distinguished and respected diplomats, symbolizing the enduring friendship and strategic partnership between Nepal and the United States.
Born in 1967, Ambassador Thompson is a Minister-Counselor in the Senior Foreign Service of the United States. His academic excellence reflects his lifelong dedication to diplomacy and global service — holding a Bachelor’s Degree from Wittenberg University, a Master of Arts from the University of Maryland School of Public Policy, and a Master of Science in National Security Strategy from the National War College, National Defense University.
Throughout his distinguished career, Ambassador Thompson has served in pivotal leadership roles within the U.S. Department of State, including Consul General at the U.S. Consulate in Kolkata, India, and Deputy Chief of Mission and Chargé d’Affaires (Acting Ambassador) at U.S. Embassies in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and Bucharest, Romania.
He also contributed to the Executive Secretariat, Operations Center, and Crisis Management Staff at the U.S. Department of State, playing vital roles in policy coordination and emergency response. Fluent in Romanian and Bengali, Ambassador Thompson brings deep intercultural understanding and a spirit of global cooperation wherever he serves.
Before his current assignment, he worked in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, focusing on counter-proliferation and security cooperation with South Korea — reinforcing his expertise in defense diplomacy and international stability.
Nominated by President Joe Biden on March 29, 2022, and confirmed by the U.S. Senate on August 5, 2022, Ambassador Thompson officially presented his credentials to then-President Bidya Devi Bhandari on October 21, 2022, marking the start of his mission to strengthen Nepal–U.S. ties.
🤝 Strengthening a Historic Friendship
Under Ambassador Thompson’s dynamic leadership, the U.S. Embassy in Nepal has advanced programs that empower youth, promote women’s entrepreneurship, enhance education, and support disaster preparedness and environmental protection. His tenure has been marked by transparency, collaboration, and a shared vision of prosperity for both nations.
The Nepal–U.S. friendship, rooted in over 75 years of partnership, continues to flourish through mutual respect, shared democratic values, and sustainable development. Ambassador Thompson’s diplomatic acumen, humility, and human-centered approach have made him a symbol of trust and goodwill among the Nepali people.
Tribute and Best Wishes from Nepal’s Global Inspiration
From the heart of Nepal’s youth and global achievers, Dinesh Sunar, a world-renowned Parkour Athlete, Gymnast, and Stunt Performer, and 20-Time Guinness World Record Holder, extends heartfelt gratitude and respect to His Excellency:
“Your Excellency’s dedication to Nepal, your visionary diplomacy, and your compassion inspire us all. You represent the bridge of friendship, peace, and partnership between our two great nations. May your service continue to strengthen the bond of mutual respect and shared progress.”
