Amid a dip in bilateral ties with India, Nepal’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Kamal Thapa on Wednesday said Nepal’s consistent effort is to maintain cooperative and friendly relations with its two friendly neighbours — India and China.
In a briefing to the Kathmandu-based diplomatic community after recent political developments that almost toppled the KP Oli-led Government, the Government tried to clear doubts about the new Constitution, future position of the Government, and how it is negotiating with agitating Madhes-based parties, among others. “In our external relations, we pursue the policy of friendship with all,” said Thapa at the event, where Oli was alo present.
“Both our neighbours are making tremendous progress in economic growth, infrastructure development, science and technology and in transforming life standards of their people,” Thapa said at the briefing, adding, “We are inspired by their progress.”
“Situated between them, our legitimate desire is to benefit from their prosperity and this pragmatism is guiding our deep and comprehensive engagement with them.”
Over two dozen Kathmandu based ambassadors and heads of the diplomatic missions were present in the meeting. The pro-establishment faction in Nepal blamed India for the recent upheaval in Nepal by allegedly propping up the
Nepali Congress and UCPN (Moaist) to bring down the Oli Government.