China voices concern over Western influence in Nepal

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi conveyed Beijing's unease over Western engagement in Nepal during a meeting with his Nepali counterpart Shisir Khanal. Wang stressed China's dedication to its role as a "reliable neighbor and reliable partner" for Nepal's progress, stating that "distant relatives are not as good as close neighbors."

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distant relatives are not as good as close neighbours. China will always be a reliable neighbour and reliable partner…

According to Nepali officials, Chinese leaders raised concerns about U.S. initiatives like the Millennium Challenge Corporation and the State Partnership Program, viewing them as detrimental to China's interests. Beijing also expressed worry over a corruption case involving a Chinese firm in the construction of Pokhara International Airport, which was financed by Chinese loans.

In response to the corruption allegations, Khanal assured that Nepal's competent authority is handling the case in court and is prepared to share the chargesheet with China. He also addressed the Lipulekh border dispute, noting that agreements between India and China have complicated the issue between Nepal and India. Khanal proposed the development of four corridors and sought air routes, while also reaffirming Nepal's commitment to the one-China policy and stating that Taiwan and Tibet are internal Chinese affairs.

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These initiatives only create trouble for China.

Khanal's visit aimed to reassure China of Nepal's commitment to improving bilateral relations and to dispel any notion of Kathmandu tilting towards the West, especially following last year's "Gen Z movement." The discussions highlighted Nepal's delicate balancing act between its powerful neighbors and Western partners.

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The Taiwan and Tibet issues are China’s internal affairs. Nepal firmly adheres to the one-China policy, supports China’s complete reunification, and will never allow any force to use Nepalese territory