Old challenges in a new era

Nepal has a new government and the youngest prime minister in its history.

The establishment of this government is seen as the official beginning of a new historical period, the core essence of which is "different from before." However, what constitutes this "newness" and how it differs from before is another matter entirely, and these are questions that remain unanswered.

What is certain is that, despite the changing times, the foreign policy challenges remain the same. For many years, Nepalese authorities have essentially failed to thoroughly and sustainably overcome this challenge, let alone develop strategies to address it in a way that is most beneficial to Nepal in all aspects.

Nepal's new Prime Minister Balendra Shah (dressed in black) at his inauguration ceremony.

Photo: Reuters

This presents a challenge in balancing political and foreign relations and cooperation with China, India, and the United States, not just in economic and trade matters. Nepal's geographical location, whether it wants it or not, has pushed it into the geopolitical game of these three partners. Each country has immediate and fundamental long-term strategic interests in Nepal, and therefore seeks to bring Nepal into their sphere of influence. These countries all intentionally try to isolate Nepal from the others.

There was a time when Nepal sided ideologically or purely economically and commercially with one partner or another, but this policy orientation was not sustainable due to internal disagreements within Nepal and external pressure. No government has ever succeeded in balancing relations between China and India. The increasing US interest in Nepal makes it even more difficult for Nepal to create a balance in its relationship with China and India.

Balancing foreign relations with Nepal's three most important partners simultaneously is proving to be a daunting task for the new ruling authorities. The old challenge seems to continue haunting the future of this new era.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/thach-thuc-cu-o-thoi-moi-185260329222442713.htm