Lipulekh – Nepal, India, China, and the Geopolitical Stakes
Summary
India and China have agreed to reopen traditional border trade routes including Lipulekh, a contested tri-junction also claimed by Nepal, raising geopolitical tensions and sovereignty concerns.
Key Points
- India and China agreed to reopen three traditional border trade routes: Lipulekh, Shipki La, and Nathu La.
- Lipulekh is a disputed tri-junction involving Nepal, India, and China, historically claimed by Nepal under the 1816 Sugauli Treaty.
- India has established a military presence and infrastructure in Lipulekh, while China and India have bilateral agreements excluding Nepal.
- Nepal asserts sovereignty based on historical treaties and maps but faces diplomatic challenges, with limited international recognition of its claims.
