'Developmental autonomy: Nepal's doctrine of statecraft'
Summary
Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal says Nepal’s statecraft is guided by “developmental autonomy,” with strategies aimed southward, northward and globally to expand trade, connectivity and partnerships. On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, Nepal also held bilateral talks with the UK and Australia and established diplomatic relations with Namibia.
Key Points
- Shisir Khanal said developmental autonomy is Nepal’s doctrine of statecraft and outlined a three-direction strategy centered on India, China and broader global partnerships.
- He linked Nepal’s foreign policy to climate resilience after the Bhotekoshi floods and urged stronger early-warning systems, data-sharing and grant-based climate finance.
- Khanal held bilateral meetings with UK minister Kirsty McNeill and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong to discuss disaster recovery and bilateral cooperation.
- Nepal and Namibia signed a joint communiqué establishing diplomatic relations, expanding Nepal’s ties to 187 countries.
