RSP advocates “development diplomacy” over “power-centred diplomacy”

Nepal's Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has put forward "development diplomacy" as the cornerstone of its foreign policy, advocating for a shift from traditional "power-centered diplomacy." This proposal, detailed in a political document presented at the party's first national convention, aims to leverage international partnerships for national progress.

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The national interests defined by the Constitution of Nepal, independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, national dignity, border security, citizens’ rights and welfare, and economic prosperity, serve as the fundamental guiding principles of foreign policy.

The party's political paper, authored by RSP chair Rabi Lamichhane, outlines foreign policy's strategic role in promoting national sovereignty, economic prosperity, citizen welfare, and international standing. It emphasizes an independent, balanced, and national interest-centered approach, guided by the Constitution of Nepal. The RSP reaffirms its commitment to the UN Charter, Panchsheel principles, the Non-Aligned Movement, and international law, while adapting to global changes.

"Development diplomacy" focuses on mobilizing international partnerships in key sectors like education, information technology, agriculture, health, and infrastructure. This approach seeks to avoid geopolitical controversies often linked to foreign-funded projects. The party specifically proposes learning from India's advancements in digital public infrastructure and economic formalization, while building structured partnerships with China for concessional financing and infrastructure development.

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We believe this geographical position should not be seen as a weakness but as an opportunity.

Nepal's unique geographical position between India and China is viewed not as a weakness but as an opportunity. The RSP envisions Nepal as a "vibrant bridge" connecting South Asia and the Himalayan region economically, culturally, and in terms of trade and human connectivity, rather than a passive arena for competing global powers. Relations with neighbors will be based on mutual respect, equality, trust, and shared interests, with balanced engagement with both India and China prioritized in areas such as trade, infrastructure, energy, tourism, education, and technology.

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We aim to develop Nepal not as a passive arena of competing influence, but as a vibrant bridge connecting South Asia and the Himalayan region in terms of economy, culture, trade and human connectivity.