Nepal stands for internationally beneficial national interests: PM

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Jan. 21: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has clarified that Nepal stands for fair and internationally beneficial national interests.

Speaking at the ‘Dialogue on Nepal’s Foreign Policy with Parliamentarians’ organised by the Foreign Affairs Department of the CPN-UML on Monday, Prime Minister Oli said that Nepal remains committed to its sovereignty, dignity, and territorial integrity under the belief that the interests of both small and large nations are equal.

“When we talk about our national interests, we also consider global peace and humanitarian concerns. We are guided by the UN Charter, the principles of Panchsheel, and non-alignment. We believe in mutual benefit and coexistence,” Prime Minister Oli said. 

“We maintain foreign relations with the sentiment that we have no enemy, only friends. We do not hide our cowardice under the guise of geopolitics. We can face geopolitical situations in a balanced manner to safeguard our national interests,” he added. 

“We should present our legitimate concerns to neighbouring countries openly and amicably. Diplomacy doesn’t mean speaking in a convoluted manner. Communication should be clear and understandable, allowing the other party to form their perspective with ease.”

He expressed that surrendering national interests for power and kneeling for personal gains are not in the national interest. “There is no need to harbour an inferiority complex about being a small nation.”

He criticised the tendency to prioritise power and minor matters over national interests, emphasising that Nepal must present itself credibly and responsibly by focusing on its economic, cultural, and diplomatic interests.

Prime Minister Oli advised the parliamentarians to present themselves in Parliament with thorough study and preparation and to keep Parliament active and lively.

The programme featured presentations by foreign affairs experts on Nepal’s foreign policy in the global order, changing geopolitical contexts, climate justice and diplomacy.