From diplomacy to youth and climate, Kathmandu summit calls for a new approach to Nepal-India ties

Nepal's relationship with India requires a modern approach, adapting to a changing region and prioritizing economic cooperation, technology, diplomacy, and the aspirations of its youth. This was a central theme at the 'NDTV Anviksha: Ideas Across Borders' summit in Kathmandu, which convened political leaders, diplomats, business executives, cultural figures, and young voices from both nations.

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Friendship doesn’t mean only being there for good times. Whatever we can do, we are ready to help.

The event featured discussions on the opportunities and challenges facing Nepal as it enters a new chapter. Notable attendees included Nepal's Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal, Nepali Congress President Gagan Thapa, Rastriya Swatantra Party chair Rabi Lamichhane, and Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava. Indian parliamentarian Shashi Tharoor and BJP national vice president Ram Madhav also participated.

Rahul Kanwal, CEO and editor-in-chief of NDTV, opened the dialogue by expressing solidarity with Nepal following recent flash floods that claimed over 350 lives, offering India's assistance. However, much of the summit focused on the future of Nepal-India relations. Speakers across various panels stressed the need for greater trust, more frequent communication, and respect for Nepal's sovereignty.

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Nepal has a unique relationship with both India and China, and we are not leaning towards either. It is like the relationship between a father and a mother, each is different, and neither can replace the other. We need both countries.

Foreign Minister Khanal articulated Nepal's balanced approach to its relationships with India and China, stating, "Nepal has a unique relationship with both India and China, and we are not leaning towards either." He likened it to a father-mother relationship, emphasizing the need for both. Khanal also acknowledged existing disagreements but advocated for continued dialogue. He further stressed the urgency for Nepal, India, and Bhutan to collaborate on protecting the Himalayan ecosystem, warning of a "civilisational threat" from environmental degradation.

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Neighbours should come together because it is now a civilisational threat for us.

Indian Ambassador Naveen Srivastava highlighted the expansion of engagement with Nepali youth and young politicians, identifying education as a strong pillar of people-to-people relations. The discussions underscored a desire for a forward-looking partnership that addresses contemporary challenges while respecting mutual independence.

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We have expanded our engagement with Nepali youths in universities and with young politicians in the past few years.