The relationship between Nepal and China is as unshakable as a mountain, with continuous high-level bilateral visits considered to further strengthen the depth of relations and enhance cordiality. Following the completion of the visit by the Chinese Foreign Minister some time ago, Liu Jianchao, the head of the Foreign Affairs Department of the Communist Party of China, has now visited Nepal, broadening the dimensions of relations between the two countries. This visit also underscores China's significant attachment to its relations with Nepal.

Nepal's historical relationship and friendship with China, an emerging global power, dates back to ancient times, marked by a lack of significant problems between the two countries. The relationship between Nepal and China is built upon principles of mutual harmony, respect, brotherhood, and mutual cooperation, which have fostered trust, cooperation, and collaboration. China has long supported and assisted Nepal's development efforts, a fact well-known to most Nepalis who desire to continue this friendship.

The contribution of Nepal's northern neighbor has played a vital role in significant projects and infrastructure development within Nepal. The government and people of Nepal hold China's support and cooperation in high regard, with confidence that this cooperation will continue in the future.

As a peaceful nation, Nepal holds no enmity towards any country in the world, considering all nations as friends. Nepal's foreign relations are motivated by this ideal, with the primary interest of the country lying in its economic and social development. Given Nepal's insufficient internal resources for economic development, cooperation becomes both a desire and a necessity. Nepal's current vision, represented by Arjuna, prioritizes economic development with necessary support while safeguarding national interests.

China has prioritized Nepal's economic progress and development based on the principles of good neighborliness. China's continuous hard work and its national inclination to assist friends when needed have propelled it to emerge as a global power quickly. Consequently, it is desirable for Nepal to cooperate with neighboring countries like China to contribute to economic progress and development.

China's interest lies in preventing any unwanted activities originating from Nepalese territory. It is also in Nepal's national interest to address the security concerns and apprehensions of its close neighbor as much as possible. During each visit from China, it is apparent that China expects reciprocal measures from Nepal, as reflected in the present visit of the head of the foreign department. The Chinese side has publicly prioritized this issue in meetings with high-ranking Nepali leaders.

Encouragingly, almost all major political parties in Nepal, including the government, are committed to ensuring their land is not utilized for anti-China policies or activities. The Prime Minister and leaders of other political parties have assured Chinese guests that Nepalese land will not be employed against the one-China policy or activities targeting China. As a result, the mutual trust and relationship between Nepal and China are expected to be further strengthened, recognizing that Nepal, like China, prioritizes relations with China.

It is widely accepted that maintaining a balanced relationship with all neighboring countries is in Nepal's best interest. Nepal's foreign policy, which has refrained from aligning with any power or military alliance, has been consistently unfavorable for the country. Relations with friendly countries should be cultivated to promote close and friendly ties, serving as the primary foundation for Nepali development. Considering India and China as Nepal's closest neighbors, it is undeniable that relations with these two countries will naturally receive higher priority in favor of Nepal's interests and economic development.

Input: This article was published on 16 July 2022 in www.rajaneeti.com