Nepal Foreign Minister defends policy stance as ambassador list is finalized

Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal has reaffirmed the government's commitment to a foreign policy centered on national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and long-term national interests. Addressing the House of Representatives, Khanal clarified previous remarks regarding “old baggage,” explaining that his intent was to distance diplomacy from past internal political polarization rather than disparaging the nation's history or constitutional decisions, such as the inclusion of Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura in the political map.

Simultaneously, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has finalized a list of candidates for ambassadors to 21 of the 22 vacant diplomatic missions. While the ministry has prioritized professionals and experts, a consensus is still being sought between Prime Minister Balendra Shah and Rastriya Swatantra Party chair Rabi Lamichhane regarding certain proposed names. The selection process included a shortlist of approximately 2,700 applicants, with the final list comprising 14 political appointments and seven career diplomats.