Nepal’s northern border is not dispute-free, foreign minister tells parliament

Nepal's Foreign Minister, Shisir Khanal, has informed parliament that border-related issues exist with China in limited areas, countering the perception that only the border with India is contentious. Khanal's statement came shortly after his return from a visit to China and highlighted that while activity at the northern border is less intense than with India, disputes are present.

According to the boundary protocol between Nepal and China, joint inspections should occur every 10 years to update boundary records. However, such inspections have not taken place since 2006, leaving no official record of the specific boundary issues. Experts and officials point to disputes over border pillar number 57 in Dolakha district, as well as issues in Humla, Gorkha, and Kimathanka (Sankhuwasabha), which require resolution through joint inspections.

“

There are border disputes with China in limited areas. It is not that there are no disputes at all.

Reports indicate various border-related problems, including encroachment, fencing, illegal construction, missing pillars, and lack of maintenance. In 2022, the District Administration Office in Humla reported alleged attempts by China to construct a canal within Nepali territory. Minister Khanal acknowledged these issues, stating that the government has set aside a placeholder budget to address disputes in a handful of areas and cover resolution expenses.

Regarding the border with India, Khanal confirmed that discussions have resumed on issues such as border pillar reconstruction and cross-border encroachment. Technical teams from both countries are actively working in the border areas. This resumption follows a long halt in the process, indicating a renewed effort to address the long-standing border complexities with Nepal's southern neighbor.

“

The process had been halted for long, but it has now resumed. Technical teams from both countries are in the border areas and carrying out their work.