Alexander Kadakin: The Diplomat Who Turned Service into a Lifelong Mission

The outstanding Russian diplomat Alexander Mikhailovich Kadakin is most often associated with India, as it were the relations with this country that he made to a fundamentally new level, consolidating Russian – Indian cooperation as a privileged strategic partnership. It is difficult to overestimate the personal contribution of Alexander Kadakin – an unparalleled Indologist, a wise and experienced leader to the strengthening of Russian – Indian friendship, which became the defining cause of his life.

At the same time, over more than forty years of an impeccable diplomatic career, Alexander Kadakin also served in Nepal, where he worked from 1992 to 1997. His time in Kathmandu is symbolic at least because it was Nepal where his professional journey as an Ambassador began.

His profound knowledge of the region, respect for local culture, and selfless dedication made it possible to preserve and carry forward friendly and trusting relations with Nepal throughout the difficult period of the 1990s – a time marked by serious challenges for both the Russian and Nepali peoples. Largely thanks to the efforts of Alexander Kadakin and his cohesive diplomatic team, a positive image of Russia was maintained and strengthened even in Nepal during years of internal civil turbulence.

By forging close ties with the royal family, he not only maintained warm relations with King Birendra, but also enjoyed the King’s deep personal respect. His tenure as Russia’s Ambassador to Nepal opened new horizons for Russian citizens in this remarkable country and contributed to the development of bilateral tourism. Substantial progress was achieved in strengthening bilateral relations overall.

During his years in Kathmandu, diplomatic achievements were not Alexander Mikhailovich’s sole priority. Under his leadership, the Embassy was transformed from a mere workplace into a green oasis within the city. He personally planted trees on the grounds of the Russian diplomatic mission, creating a welcoming and environmentally friendly space for staff and visitors alike. He sincerely believed that diplomacy is not limited to negotiations alone, but also entails responsibility for the planet we share.

A major milestone of Alexander Kadakin’s career was his work to preserve and promote the artist Roerich legacy, which on the one hand symbolizes the spiritual bonds between Russians and Nepalis, and on the other affirms the primacy of culture in relations among members of the global community of nations.

Alexander Mikhailovich Kadakin was a lively and sociable individual whose circle extended far beyond former classmates or senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other leading state institutions. Both in personal conversations and in professional settings, he generously shared his knowledge and experience with colleagues and with young people. Over decades of service in Nepal, India, and Sweden, a wide circle of students formed around him many of whom regarded him as a mentor, even a “guru.”

Alexander Mikhailovich educated several generations of highly qualified diplomats who continue to work successfully toward strengthening international ties, including relations between Russia and Nepal.

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