Kathmandu, Beijing announce foreign minister's China visit

Nepal's Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal is embarking on an official visit to China, commencing Sunday, just a week after traveling to India. This diplomatic maneuver is widely seen as Nepal's strategic effort to maintain balanced relations with its two immediate, powerful neighbors.

The visit, at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, will include bilateral talks in Beijing on Monday. Discussions are expected to center on strengthening Nepal-China relations and advancing bilateral cooperation. Officials indicate a focus on enhancing mutual trust and confidence between Kathmandu and Beijing, mirroring discussions held during Khanal's recent Indian visit.

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Khanal will be in China from June 14 to 17.

The timing of the visit is significant, occurring amidst growing concerns in Beijing following Gen Z-led protests in Nepal. Chinese officials have been closely monitoring these developments. The diplomatic engagements are intended to address perceptions on both sides and reaffirm commitments to continued cooperation. This comes after Chinese leaders inquired about the new government's stance, prompting Nepal's leadership to reassure them of adherence to its principled foreign policy.

During his stay, Khanal plans to discuss political and security relations and push for mutual assistance in 'tangible projects.' Key discussion points are expected to include infrastructure development, reducing Nepal's trade deficit, connectivity, cross-border movement, tourism revival, and projects under China's Belt and Road Initiative. Nepal has previously engaged in agreements like the BRI and the Trans Himalayan Multi Dimensional Connectivity Network, with projects such as the expansion of the Chinese railway to Kathmandu on the agenda.

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Nepal upholds both the letter and spirit enshrined in the constitution and its foreign policy doctrine.