Nepal Criticizes India-China Border Trade at Lipu Lekh as ‘Unacceptable’: Ex-Foreign Minister

Speedy Summary

• India-China Agreement: India and China have agreed to restart border trade through the Lipu Lekh Pass in Uttarakhand, a region contested by Nepal as part of its territory.
• Nepal’s Reaction: Nepal has termed the agreement “unexpected and unacceptable,” citing its sovereign claims on Lipu Lekh,Kalapani,and Limpiyadhura under the Treaty of Sugauli.
• Official Responses:

– Pradeep Gyawali (Nepali leader): nepal will send a diplomatic note to India regarding this issue while maintaining dialog.
– Indian response (MEA): Trade via Lipu Lekh dates back to 1954; territorial claims by Nepal are deemed unjustified based on past evidence.

• Context of Decision: The agreement was made during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to Delhi on August 18-19. Indian officials extended an invitation to nepali PM K.P.Sharma Oli for an upcoming visit amid ongoing tensions.
• Planned Diplomatic Engagements:

– Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri visited Kathmandu ahead of Wang Yi’s arrival,engaging with Nepali officials including PM Oli.
– Despite the dispute, Oli’s plans for visiting India reportedly remain unaffected.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The revival of border trade between India and China via Lipu Lekh raises fresh concerns over long-standing territorial disputes in South Asia. While India’s focus appears rooted in economic engagement with China post-COVID disruptions, Nepal views any bilateral arrangement involving contested regions as an affront to its sovereignty. This underscores the delicate nature of India’s neighborhood diplomacy.

Nepal’s planned diplomatic outreach highlights a commitment to addressing grievances without jeopardizing broader relations. The decision not to derail PM Oli’s visit indicates Kathmandu’s willingness for constructive dialogue despite competing pressures at home-where demands for firm action over territorial claims continue.

From India’s perspective, balancing robust ties with both Beijing and Kathmandu remains crucial amidst regional complexities that could influence broader security dynamics along Himalayan borders.

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