Nepal’s role in China’s Belt and Road Initiative highlights balancing act between Beijing and Delhi
Despite recent tensions in the region, the country’s interests can be best served by acting as a bridge between two giant neighbours
The six-day visit to China by Nepal’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Krishna Bahadur Mahara concluded with a number of agreements – most notably a deal to step up plans for a trans-Himalayan rail link – as Kathmandu seeks to deepen its economic ties with Beijing.
The growing links between the two have concerned India, Nepal’s other giant neighbour, and some have seen them as a counterbalance to India’s dominance in the region.
Historically, Nepal has tried to maintain a balance between the two and remain neutral when they come into conflict.
The recent Doklam stand-off was of immense concern for Nepal as it has ambitions of developing itself into a vibrant bridge between these two Asian giants.
Following the recent dispute, China and India are seemingly less enthusiastic on building direct connections between them but Nepal can play a role as a catalyst in bringing them together.
In this regard, Nepal can also avoid a “zero-sum game” that might force it to choose between China and India.