Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal Calls for Economic Diplomacy as Bridge Between India and China

Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal said economic diplomacy is now a central priority of Nepal’s foreign policy, aimed at improving living standards through expanded trade, investment, tourism, technology and sustainable development. Speaking at the international conference “China and South Asia in a Multipolar World” in Lalitpur, he described Nepal as a “dynamic bridge” that can link India and China, emphasizing sovereign equality, mutual respect and sensitivity to each neighbour’s interests.

Khanal noted that the rapid economic growth of China and India offers new opportunities for Nepal to attract investment, develop infrastructure and boost connectivity. The new government led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah seeks a balanced approach toward its two large neighbours, highlighted by recent back‑to‑back visits to New Delhi and Beijing. The minister stressed that success will be measured by tangible opportunities created for Nepali citizens rather than the number of agreements signed.