Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal stated that Nepal's foreign policy must protect national interests while addressing the challenges of a changing global environment.
Addressing the fifth edition of the 'Professor Yadunath Khanal Lecture Series' held in Kathmandu on Monday, Minister Khanal highlighted the evolving geopolitical realities shaping the nation's diplomatic approach.
Speaking on the theme “Nepal’s Foreign Policy: Navigating Geopolitical and Geo-economic Trends,” the Foreign Minister noted that profound shifts in the international environment—characterized by intense major power rivalry and rapid technological advancements—have presented both unique challenges and opportunities for nations like Nepal.
He stressed that Nepal must confront these global transformations with clarity, confidence, and strategic prudence.
Minister Khanal reiterated that Nepal’s foreign policy remains deeply rooted in the UN Charter, the principles of Panchsheel (five principles of peaceful coexistence), non-alignment, and peaceful cohabitation.
However, he cautioned against misinterpreting non-alignment as a passive stance.
"Non-alignment should not be viewed as passivity. Instead, it must be defined as an active policy that empowers us to make independent decisions based strictly on our national interest," Minister Khanal asserted.
Characterizing diplomacy as a direct reflection of a country's internal state, the Foreign Minister pointed out the inseparable link between domestic stability and international credibility.
"Our diplomatic standing abroad is strong only when there is political stability and economic progress at home. This is precisely why the government has prioritized good governance and rapid economic development," he said.
He further clarified Nepal's stance on global power dynamics, stating that Nepal's foreign relations do not involve taking sides in zero-sum geopolitical rivalries.
The country seeks to maintain balanced, constructive, and friendly relations with all nations.
Minister Khanal further stated that contemporary diplomacy must be result-oriented and development-centric. He shared that Nepali missions abroad have been actively mobilized to prioritize economic diplomacy, trade promotion, investment attraction, and tourism development.
Concluding his address, the Minister urged stakeholders to view geopolitics not merely as an obstacle or a constraint, but as an opportunity to serve as a bridge connecting global interests.
.
