Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah intentionally declined meetings with India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and US envoy Sergio Gor, sparking discussions in Kathmandu regarding sovereignty and diplomatic ties. The Kathmandu Post emphasized the need for a nuanced approach, suggesting that while not every foreign official needs to be met, a blanket refusal might not be wise. Reports indicated that Misri’s visit was postponed upon learning that Shah would not meet him.
Speculation arose in Nepal that the Prime Minister’s reluctance to meet stemmed from his policy of avoiding one-on-one meetings with foreign officials below ministerial rank, particularly amidst tensions over the Lipulekh border issue. Shah’s refusal was reportedly linked to Nepal’s objection to the India-China Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route via Lipulekh Pass, according to a Tibet Tribune report. The controversy revolves around Nepal’s claim to the Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura area under the 1816 Sugauli Treaty, while India asserts historical use for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra since 1954.
Described as an “equal stature” policy, Shah’s actions were seen as a deliberate diplomatic signal, emphasizing parity in engagements. The Kathmandu Post highlighted that Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s visit was canceled after his requests to meet the Nepali Prime Minister went unanswered. Despite appeals from other Cabinet members, Shah remained firm in his decision. The editorial also mentioned that preparations were underway for Shah’s visit to India, but it was later revealed that he would not be making any foreign trips for a year.
Shah’s avoidance of meetings with certain foreign officials, such as United States Assistant Secretary of State Samir Paul Kapur and US envoy Sergio Gor, has been viewed as a selective engagement strategy. Gor met with Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal and Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle instead. While some analysts in Kathmandu interpreted Shah’s actions as an effort to establish new diplomatic norms, concerns were raised about potential repercussions on foreign relations. Shah’s press aide cited a busy schedule as the reason for the missed meetings, while local analysts noted his conscious decision to avoid engagements below head-of-state or ministerial levels.
