US envoy Gor to visit Nepal amid US-China diplomatic race

Nepal finds itself at the center of a burgeoning diplomatic contest between the United States and China, a dynamic that is increasingly shaping its foreign relations and domestic policy considerations. The upcoming visit of US Special Envoy Sergio Gor, a Trump insider and US Ambassador to India, underscores Washington's heightened focus on the region. Gor's effective oversight of Nepal affairs from New Delhi, following the recall of the previous ambassador, signals a strategic effort to maintain influence.

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Gor is currently serving as US ambassador to India and is known as a Trump insider.

This engagement is occurring against a backdrop of significant diplomatic activity. Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asia, Samir Paul Kapur, recently concluded his visit, reaffirming US commitments to investment and encouraging reforms to attract foreign direct investment. However, this US outreach is being closely matched by China, which has also sent senior officials to Kathmandu. Beijing has reiterated its concerns regarding Nepal's alignment with US initiatives, including the MCC Compact, the State Partnership Program (SPP), and the Starlink satellite network.

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As the US does not have a dedicated ambassador to Kathmandu since mid-January after the Trump administration recalled Dean Thomposn, Gor has been effectively overseeing Nepal affairs from New Delhi, said diplomatic sources.

The Nepali government, under Prime Minister Shah, appears to be navigating these competing interests with a degree of caution. While the US side has requested a meeting between Prime Minister Shah and Special Envoy Gor, focusing on business and investment, the Prime Minister's office has indicated a preference for meetings with officials of ministerial rank or higher. This stance suggests a desire to manage the intensity of these high-level interactions and perhaps to assert a degree of autonomy in foreign policy decisions, even as the nation benefits from potential investments and aid from both global powers. The delicate balancing act Nepal performs is crucial for its own development and stability amidst great power competition.

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He also held talks with Rastriya Swatantra Party chair Rabi Lamichhane and visited two UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu Valley before leaving for Washington.