Nepal between power and proximity: Sphere, buffer, or strategic actor?
Summary
Nepal is strategically positioned between major powers China and India, navigating its complex role as a buffer state, within overlapping spheres of influence, and as a peripheral actor on the global stage.
Key Points
- Nepal is situated between China and India, two major powers with competing interests influencing its strategic environment.
- Nepal functions as a buffer state, historically insulating rival powers but now challenged by modern connectivity and geopolitical dynamics.
- The overlapping spheres of influence from China and India place Nepal under constant strategic attention despite its small size.
- Nepal faces three strategic paths: passive buffering, alignment with a major power, or active balancing through diversified partnerships and strong institutions.
