India, Nepal and the Weight of a New Reality

A new chapter in the Himalayas: Recalibrating Nepal–India relations in a changed context

New Delhi: The recent visit by Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal (05-07 June) right after Rabi Lamichhane, Chair of Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) (01-05 June) signalled more than a routine diplomatic visit. It is important to situate and assess the two visits within the domestic political changes in Nepal and the simmering tensions between India and Nepal in the past month. The newly formed and elected political party led by Balendra Shah,…

Anticipating a New Era in Nepal-India Relations

It has not been long since contemporary global dynamics began to be described as a “field of exploding realities” within an “era of uncertain fluidity.” Amidst constant shifts in the balance of power, alliances, and international relations, nations must remain hyper-vigilant and entirely prepared to safeguard their national aspirations and core interests. The relationship between Nepal and India is no exception to this reality. Geography, civili…

India, Nepal and the Weight of a New Reality

The first important visit by a Nepali delegation after the coming to power of the new Prime Minister of Nepal, Balen Shah, who rose to prominence through the popular Gen Z-led protests across the country. During the visit, both sides discussed a wide range of issues, including development cooperation, connectivity, trade and transit, energy cooperation, people-to-people ties, and regional and multilateral matters. Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal…