Editorial | PM’s policy of not meeting foreign officials needs more nuance
Summary
Prime Minister Balendra Shah has enforced a strict diplomatic code by refusing individual meetings with foreign officials, signaling a shift in Nepal's diplomatic practices while emphasizing the need for nuance to maintain important international relationships.
Key Points
- Prime Minister Balendra Shah set a precedent by briefing foreign ambassadors jointly on the new government’s priorities.
- Shah strictly enforces a diplomatic code which declines individual meetings with foreign envoys and some top officials.
- The cancellation of Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s visit after Shah declined a meeting has caused diplomatic tensions.
- The editorial urges Shah to balance diplomatic restraint with maintaining Nepal's relationships with key international partners like India, China, and the US.
