Kathmandu (Nepal), April 14: Nepal’s newly formed government led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah has proposed a significant recalibration of its foreign policy framework, introducing a “Nepal First” approach that places national interests, sovereignty, and strategic balance at the core of its diplomatic priorities.
The proposal, outlined in a draft National Commitment Paper circulated among major political stakeholders, signals Kathmandu’s intent to align with a growing global trend of nation-centric foreign policies. The document emphasises the principle of “Nepal First, Nepalis First,” marking a shift towards a more assertive and self-focused diplomatic posture.
The draft has been shared with six political parties that secured national recognition following the March 5 elections, including the Nepali Congress, Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist Leninist), Rastriya Swatantra Party, Nepali Communist Party, Rastriya Prajatantra Party and the Shram Sanskriti Party.
Prepared as part of the government’s 100-point governance reform agenda following Shah’s swearing-in on March 27, the policy lays out a roadmap for a more balanced and pragmatic engagement with the international community. At its core is the concept of maintaining “equal distance and equal proximity” with all countries, a principle aimed at avoiding entanglement in military alliances and geopolitical rivalries.
The move comes at a time of shifting global dynamics, with increasing emphasis among nations on prioritising domestic interests amid geopolitical uncertainties. Nepal’s approach seeks to navigate these complexities by reinforcing its long-standing non-aligned stance while adapting to emerging global realities.
Geographically positioned between India and China, Nepal has historically functioned as a buffer state between the two regional powers. The new policy, however, envisions a transformation of this role into that of a “vibrant bridge,” aimed at fostering economic cooperation and connectivity across the region.
Officials indicated that the strategy would leverage Nepal’s unique position to promote trilateral partnerships, widely understood to involve India and China, though the draft stops short of naming specific countries. The emphasis is on turning geopolitical shifts into opportunities for development, investment, and regional integration.
The policy also underscores a commitment to safeguarding Nepal’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national identity, while pursuing a flexible and results-oriented diplomacy. This includes adapting to changing global alignments without compromising the country’s independence or neutrality.
In practical terms, Nepal is expected to continue its multifaceted relationship with India, rooted in deep cultural, religious, and economic ties, while simultaneously engaging with China and other global players to diversify its diplomatic and economic partnerships.
Analysts view the “Nepal First” framework as an attempt to strike a delicate balance between competing regional influences, while asserting greater autonomy in foreign policy decisions. The emphasis on neutrality and non-alignment reflects a cautious approach to global conflicts, with the government explicitly stating that military alliances, arms races, and wars are detrimental to global peace.
The draft policy also signals a stronger focus on economic diplomacy, with plans to attract foreign investment, enhance trade opportunities, and strengthen Nepal’s presence on the global stage. By aligning its foreign policy with development goals, the government aims to create a more resilient and growth-oriented economic environment.
While the proposal is still under consultation, its adoption could mark a significant shift in Nepal’s diplomatic trajectory, positioning the country as an independent and proactive player in regional and global affairs.
As the government seeks feedback from political stakeholders, the “Nepal First” doctrine is likely to shape policy debates in the coming weeks, reflecting Kathmandu’s evolving approach to navigating an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
