In an interview with the BBC, Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal explained that the phrase “old burdens” refers to decisions driven by party and personal interests. He emphasized their commitment to resolving historical disputes with neighboring countries. Diplomatic experts have highlighted the need to clarify this issue following public statements by the ruling party leader about maintaining diplomatic relations free from past grievances and harsh decisions, aiming for a fresh start.
Since the formation of the government led by Balendra Shah, known as ‘Balen,’ the Foreign Minister has conducted visits to Delhi and Beijing, outlining the government’s priorities. During this period, several high-level U.S. officials discussed potential cooperation with the new government while visiting Kathmandu. While the government has proclaimed a focus on advancing ‘development diplomacy,’ some experts in foreign affairs have expressed concerns that these visits have not yet yielded the expected outcomes.
Minister Khanal stated, “A critical perspective on Nepal’s diplomacy and foreign relations is that these ties were largely personality-driven and party-centric.” He added, “We are not focused on relations forged for personal or party gains. We do not wish to carry that baggage.” During a visit to Delhi last month, National Independent Party Chairman Ravi Lamichhane mentioned the opportunity to establish a new beginning in Nepal-India relations.
According to Minister Khanal, discussions during visits to India and China covered areas such as development cooperation, energy, connectivity networks, and digital technology. He remarked, “The Nepali government has given high priority to its commitment, especially to the One-China policy, and we are clear that Nepal’s territory will not be used for anti-China activities.” Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed to Minister Khanal the viewpoint that “a neighbor is more appropriate than a distant relative.”
