The Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML) maintained on Thursday that Nepal can achieve economic prosperity only by maintaining close and friendly relations with India.
The party, led by former Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, asserted its commitment to preventing any anti-India activities from being conducted on Nepalese soil.
Dr. Rajan Bhattarai, the Foreign Affairs Department chief and Standing Committee member of CPN-UML, articulated the party's stance in an interview..
"CPN-UML does not believe that Nepal can progress or that the interests of Nepalese people can be promoted by pursuing an anti-India policy," Bhattarai stated.
This declaration comes on the eve of a crucial confidence vote in Parliament, which could see Oli reinstated as Prime Minister.
Bhattarai underlined that Oli aims to elevate Nepal-India relations to new heights in line with the demands of the 21st century.
"We believe that close, friendly relations with India are essential to attract more foreign investment, promote trade, and achieve economic prosperity," Bhattarai added.
Oli, known for his pro-China stance, may face challenges in balancing relations with both neighboring giants if he returns to power.
Bhattarai stressed that CPN-UML's policy is to avoid activities directed against any neighbor from Nepalese soil.
While acknowledging existing issues in bilateral relations, such as provisions of the 1950 treaty, border disputes, land inundation, and trade deficits, Bhattarai expressed confidence in resolving these matters through dialogue.
"We can resolve all our problems by sitting together and holding talks in a friendly manner," he said.
Tensions between Nepal and India escalated in 2020 after Nepal published a new political map claiming three Indian territories.
Oli had used the issue to deflect domestic pressure and challenge his leadership, criticizing India for alleged interference in Nepal's internal matters.
Bhattarai highlighted Nepal's reliance on India for goods and services transportation and noted the strategic importance of Nepal for India.
He emphasised the "Roti Beti" relationship that points at the deep cultural and familial ties between the two nations, which share a border over 1,850 km with five Indian states.
"It is our firm belief that a stable, prosperous, peaceful, and developed Nepal will also be in the interest of India," Bhattarai remarked.
He insisted that Nepal’s relations with India will be based on non-intervention in internal affairs and the promotion of national interests.
Bhattarai reiterated the party's dedication to political stability as a prerequisite for economic prosperity.
He argued that the recent political developments, including CPN-UML’s withdrawal of support from the Prachanda-led government, were aimed at achieving stability, prosperity, and good governance.
The political landscape in Nepal remains fluid, with the CPN-UML having recently inked a power-sharing deal with the Nepali Congress.
The combined strength of the two parties exceeds the majority required in the 275-member House of Representatives, making it likely that Prachanda will lose the upcoming floor test.
Bhattarai explained that the current electoral system, which resulted in a hung parliament, necessitates a constitutional amendment.
He assured that while changes to the electoral system are needed, key features such as inclusiveness, the republic system, federalism, and secularism will remain intact.
The CPN-UML is committed to bringing political stability to fulfill the aspirations of the Nepalese people and to drive economic development.
Bhattarai concluded by highlighting the party’s vision for a prosperous and stable Nepal, achieved through strong and friendly relations with India.
Follow us
