Indian Foreign Secretary’s Nepal Visit Postponed Amid Protocol and Border Disputes

The postponement of Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri's visit to Kathmandu, initially slated for May 11, has cast a shadow over the anticipated strengthening of bilateral ties. While the Indian side cited "other commitments" for the delay, sources within Nepal's Foreign Ministry point to more complex underlying issues. Prime Minister Balendra Shah's firm stance on not meeting foreign officials below the rank of foreign minister or prime minister, a policy he has applied to US officials as well, appears to be a significant factor. This adherence to protocol, while perhaps standard in some diplomatic circles, presents a unique challenge in managing relations with immediate neighbors like India, which often seeks high-level engagement.

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The proposed visit of Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to Kathmandu has been postponed, a top government official told the Post.

Furthermore, the lingering dispute over the Lipulekh trijunction, particularly Nepal's objection to India and China resuming pilgrimage to Mansarovar from the contested area, adds another layer of complexity. The Shah administration's firm objection to this unilateral decision by New Delhi and Beijing highlights a growing assertiveness in Nepal's foreign policy. This contrasts with the traditional approach where such issues might be managed through lower-level diplomatic channels or deferred for later discussion.

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Citing Misri’s other commitments, the Indian side informed Nepal that the trip had been postponed, at least for now, according to multiple government officials who did not want to be named because he is not authorised to speak with the media, adding that the southern neighbour had not given an exact reason for the postponement.

The visit was expected to pave the way for Prime Minister Shah's potential visit to India, a move that had been announced by Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal. Preparations were reportedly underway in both Kathmandu and New Delhi, with Misri himself expressing enthusiasm for the trip during a farewell call with Nepal's outgoing ambassador to India. The abrupt postponement, therefore, not only disrupts diplomatic schedules but also raises questions about the current state of trust and communication between the two nations. From a Nepali perspective, this situation underscores the delicate balance required to assert national interests while maintaining neighborly relations, especially when dealing with powerful regional players.

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Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s refusal to meet the Indian foreign secretary, ignoring repeated requests.