Signing of the BRI Framework has Opened New Avenues of Practical Cooperation

Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba at the 4th edition of the Professor Yadu Nath Khanal Lecture Series on the theme “Nepal–China Relations in the Context of South Asia: Opportunities, Challenges, and the Road Ahead” in Kathmandu. Photo: MoFA Nepal

It is both a pleasure and a privilege to be here among such an esteemed audience at the fourth edition of Professor Yadu Nath Khanal Lecture Series. Let me begin by extending my deep appreciation to both of our keynote speakers, Professor Jaya Raj Acharya and Dr. Yang Chenxi, for their thought-provoking and stimulating addresses.

Their reflections on Nepal-China relationship, its historical evolution and future prospects have enriched today’s discourse and sparked meaningful dialogue. This Lecture Series serves not only as a tribute to the enduring legacy of Professor Yadu Nath Khanal but also as a vibrant forum for critical reflection on Nepal’s foreign policy in an increasing complex world. As we honour his visionary contributions, we are also reminded of our responsibility to think boldly, act strategically, and engage constructively.

Nepal-China relations remain one of our most steadfast and time-tested bilateral partnerships, rooted in friendship, cooperation, and a shared aspiration for peace, progress and development. This year marks the 70th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China, a milestone that reflect the strength, depth and resilience of our enduring friendship. Over these seven decades, our two countries have nurtured a partnership rooted in goodwill, trust and mutual understanding.

Anchored in the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, “Panchsheel”, our relations with China have been characterized by sovereign equality, non-interference, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. Nepal firmly adheres to ‘One China Principle’ and remains committed to not allowing any activities on its soil that are inimical to the interests of China.

Our bilateral ties have been further deepened through close collaboration in regional and multilateral forums. Regular high-level exchanges have injected renewed momentum and a shared sense of purpose into our relationship. China is one of Nepal’s largest sources of foreign direct investment and a vital development partner. Its contributions across key sectors – infrastructure, health, education, agriculture, and energy – are both visible and valued.

The signing of the Framework for Belt and Road Cooperation, in December last year, has opened new avenues of practical cooperation. We appreciate the Chinese leadership’s willingness to extend their support to transform Nepal from land-locked to a land-linked country. We are also working closely to address trade imbalances, enhance access for Nepali goods, and expand cross-border logistical infrastructure.

Improved air connectivity, interoperable digital payment systems, and joint tourism initiatives are expected to boost two-way exchanges and deepen people-to-people ties. China’s solidarity has been palpable during our moments of crisis from the 2015 earthquakes to the COVID-19 pandemic. China’s timely support during these challenging times exemplifies the depth and resilience of our partnership.

As Nepal advances toward graduation from LDC status by 2026 and aspires to attain middle-income status by 2030, our development imperatives are intensifying. We look forward to deeper collaboration with China in high-impact areas such as clean energy, digital transformation, climate resilience, and innovation. China’s development experience offers valuable lessons for Nepal’s own socio-economic transformation. I would also like to take this opportunity to recall the recent successful convening of the first edition of Sagarmatha Sambaad, where the support and participation of the Government of China were instrumental in reaffirming our shared commitment to addressing the climate crisis and safeguarding our mountains, our common heritage for future generations.

The international landscape is undergoing profound transformation. Geopolitical realignments, technological disruptions, and economic interdependencies are redefining the global order.
In this fluid environment, Nepal must pursue a foreign policy that is principled yet pragmatic, grounded in strategic autonomy and firmly driven by national interest. We remain committed to peaceful cooperation, inclusive development, and a multilateral system that is fair, rules-based and responsive.

Our partnerships, including with China, must be guided by mutual respect and a shared responsibility aimed at building a just, peaceful, and sustainable world for our people. Prosperity is not a solitary journey. A stable, interconnected, and equitable region benefits all big and small countries alike. Nepal will continue to promote regional cooperation and connectivity as building blocks for peace and prosperity.

Nepal has undergone a remarkable socio-political transformation in recent history. The promulgation of our Constitution in 2015 was a landmark achievement. It institutionalized democracy, enshrined inclusiveness and charted a path toward federal governance and social justice. Our task now is to translate these constitutional promises into concrete outcomes. We are committed to strengthening democratic institutions, delivering development, and ensuring dignity and opportunity for all citizens. Economic progress lies at the heart of our national priorities.

Our development vision focuses on inclusive growth, resilient infrastructure, and sustainable transformation. We remain committed to our global obligations, be it the Sustainable Development Goals or the Paris Agreement.

Yet ambition must be matched by access to resources, technology, and enduring partnerships. Situated between two rising economic giants, Nepal holds unique potential. Through deeper integration into regional trade, investment, tourism, and innovative ecosystems, we can unlock transformative opportunities and improve the quality of life for our people.

The wisdom of Professor Yadu Nath Khanal continues to guide our diplomacy. His counsel to be balanced yet bold, principled yet practical remains timeless. He taught us to uphold sovereignty without provocation, to engage globally without compromising independence, and to pursue development without dependency. This Lecture Series carries forward his vision. It invites us to reflect not only on our external engagements but also on our internal resolve on how we, as a sovereign and aspirational nation, navigate our evolving roles in the world.

As I conclude, I once again thank our speakers tonight for their insightful presentations and all participants for your meaningful contributions.

A special word of gratitude to Professor Jaya Raj Acharya for his continued guidance and support. I also commend the Foreign Secretary and the team at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their commitment and hard work to make this event a success. To our friends in the media, thank you for your role in amplifying this important conversation to the wider public. Finally, I reaffirm our commitment to continuing the Professor Yadu Nath Khanal Lecture Series. It is a sincere tribute to one of Nepal’s finest thinkers and a dynamic platform to explore our evolving global engagements.

(The article is a remark of Foreign Minister Honourable Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba during the 4th Edition of Professor Yadu Nath Khanal Lecture Series on June 12 in Kathmandu.)