Nepal Won't Choose Between China, India, Minister Says

Nepal cannot be forced to choose between its two major neighbours, a top government minister said while addressing questions about the country's diplomatic balance in the region. The minister's remarks underscored Kathmandu's commitment to maintaining equidistant relations with both Beijing and New Delhi, dismissing the premise that Nepal must lean heavily towards one power or the other.

"You cannot replace a father with a mother," the minister stated in response to queries about Nepal's diplomatic positioning, using a metaphor to illustrate that the country values its relationships with both neighbouring nations as essential and irreplaceable.

The official emphasized that Nepal's foreign policy decisions are rooted in pragmatic considerations rather than external pressure or ideological alignment. This stance reflects Kathmandu's longstanding approach of pursuing what it terms "balanced diplomacy" to preserve its sovereignty and maximise national benefits from engagement with both countries.

Nepal's geographical position between China and India has long made it a focus of regional geopolitical dynamics. Successive governments in Kathmandu have sought to leverage ties with both neighbours while avoiding becoming a proxy in any broader strategic competition in the region.