Table of Contents
Fundamental National Principles: Balancing Ideologies
Nepal finds itself in a unique position, sandwiched between two neighboring giants, India and China. As Nepal seeks to strengthen its relations with the global superpower, the United States, it must navigate the delicate balance of gaining the trust of both competing neighbors. The alignment of a communist-led Nepal with the anti-communist stance of the United States raises pertinent questions. In light of this, it is crucial to outline the policies and principles that Nepal should adopt to foster healthy relationships with major powers.
Embracing National Principles
The Communist Party of Nepal (CPN) was founded on Marxism-Leninism and Maoist ideology. However, the current government’s alignment with external principles rather than fundamental Nepali values has raised concerns. The Communist doctrine may create deviations and obstacles in the burgeoning Nepal-US relationship.
To avoid a deadlock and address China’s objections, Nepal must present its original national principles. Nepali political parties should recognize the need for fundamental principles to advance Nepal’s foreign relations, surpassing those of its neighbors.
Strategic and Diplomatic Clarity: Navigating Power Interests
Nepal’s geopolitical significance has attracted the interest of major powers, including the United States and European countries. Achieving strategic and diplomatic clarity while maintaining a balanced relationship with neighboring China and India is of utmost importance. While it is crucial to secure the support of Western powers for Nepal’s development, caution must be exercised to prevent one-sided strategies driven solely by power interests.
Recent developments, such as discussions on military cooperation between the US, UK, and India, excluding Nepal, along with China and India’s agreement on Lipulek, emphasize the need for proactive policies and steps on Nepal’s part. A successful strategy and diplomacy can only be built upon independent principles that promote healthy relationships with both major powers and neighboring nations.
Aryavarta and Nepali Strategy: A Path to Leadership
As the United States advances its Indo-Pacific strategy and China spearheads the One Belt One Road campaign, Nepal must also forge its path by promoting the concept of Aryavarta. By connecting cultural preservation from the Himalayas to the sea with security preservation, Nepal can secure an important position in the global arena. Without such an approach, Nepal risks becoming merely a strategic pawn for others. To establish trilateral relations between India, China, and Nepal, and to assume a leadership role in the Indo-Pacific and the Road and Belt Initiative, Nepal must prioritize the concept of self-governance and Aryavarta.
Embracing Historical Significance
Nepal possesses a rich historical background, encompassing the revered Himavat Khand, Pashupatinath, Lumbini (the birthplace of Buddha), and the majestic Mount Everest. By presenting Aryavarta as its strategy, Nepal can showcase its significance to the world. The Himalayan mountains in the north, Bindhyachal in the south, and the countries in between have long been referred to as Aryavarta.
Extending from eastern Burma’s Iravati River through the Northern Hind Kush, Kailash Mansarovar, and the Pamirs in the northwest, and further to the southern part of Russia and eastern Iran, these regions hold immense potential. Awakening the Aryan civilization in Bali, Sumatra, Champasvyata (Vietnam), Cambodia, Thailand, Afghanistan, and Pakistan can establish Nepal as a central coordinator from the Indo-Pacific strategy to the One Road One Belt Initiative.
Fulfilling Aryavarta Potential
According to the note issued by the US State Department after Foreign Minister Pradeep Gyawali’s visit, Nepal has the potential to fulfill the vision of Aryavarta. However, for Nepal to achieve this, the government must understand that Nepal cannot align itself strategically with any one nation without proper knowledge and preparation for a balanced formula. By embracing the concept of Aryavarta, Nepal can transform challenges into opportunities and secure a leading position in global strategy.
Swarajya and Reconciliation: Uniting Nepal’s National Principles
Amidst the strategic initiatives and campaigns of the world, Nepal finds itself in a critical position. To effectively navigate this landscape, Nepal requires a fundamental national principle that unites its people. “Swarajya and Reconciliation” are proposed as the foundational national principles to guide Nepal’s path forward. By adopting these principles, the communist-led government can align itself with the progress made by China’s open economy under Deng Xiaoping. This shift will elevate Nepal’s international reputation through national reconciliation.
Advancing Vedic Principles
By advancing the principles of Vedic self-governance and harmony, Nepal can bring an end to internal political conflicts. The birthplace of Vyasa, the author of the Vedas, holds immense significance as Nepal endeavors to guarantee democracy, nationalism, and inclusiveness.
Despite the full implementation of Nepal’s Constitution in 2072, increasing political issues have threatened internal security and democracy. By resolving conflicts and cooperating with the global community based on its original principles and strategies, Nepal can forge a path toward sustainable development and prosperity.
In conclusion, Nepal’s foreign relations must be built upon a delicate balance of national interests and global powers. By adhering to fundamental national principles, clarifying its strategic and diplomatic stance, promoting the concept of Aryavarta, and embracing Swarajya and Reconciliation, Nepal can navigate the complex international landscape and emerge as a leader in the pursuit of sustainable development and prosperity.
