Too early to comment on government’s foreign policy decorum
Summary
Former Chief of Protocol Gopal Bahadur Thapa discusses concerns over the breakdown of diplomatic protocols in Nepal, the significance of formal procedures and attire, and the need for restoring ministry control over diplomatic engagements.
Key Points
- Diplomatic protocol is essential for maintaining respect and order in international relations, guided by the Vienna Convention.
- Prime Minister Balendra Shah's collective meeting with ambassadors was ceremonial, highlighting both positive equal-footing diplomacy and issues with informal attire.
- There is concern over the decline of institutional discipline and the necessity of routing all diplomatic engagements through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Formal record-keeping and the presence of ministry officials during diplomatic meetings are crucial to safeguard national interests and ensure transparency.
