UML condemns Prachanda's remarks made to an Indian newspaper

 Kathmandu, Nov. 17

The Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) has condemned the remarks made by Chairman of CPN (Maoist Centre), Pushpa Kamal Dahal, in an interview with an Indian newspaper 'The Hindu' on November 14 where the latter accused Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Chairman of UML as well, of 'using the China card' in politics.  

"His comments, accusing Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli of "using the China card" and labeling the decision to visit China as "proof of immaturity," are baseless, irresponsible, and deeply damaging to Nepal's sovereign image and foreign policy," the CPN-UML said in a statement on Saturday.

The statement signed by the Secretary and Chief of Department of Foreign Affairs of the CPN-UML, Raghubir Mahaseth, said that the party 'strongly condemned' the remarks made by the Prachanda who is also the three-time former prime minister of Nepal.

According to the UML, these statements are a blatant breach of diplomatic protocol and show a complete disregard for Nepal's independence.

"Nepal, as a sovereign nation, requires no external approval for its diplomatic engagements. The Prime Minister's decision to visit China is a reflection of Nepal's independent foreign policy, not a gambit of "card diplomacy" as falsely claimed," read the statement.

The UML also said that Prachanda's remarks undermine the delicate balance Nepal maintains with its two friendly neighbors, India and China, both of whom are part to Nepal's development and prosperity. Such thoughtless commentary risks jeopardizing the strong and equal partnerships Nepal has cultivated with these nations, according to the party.

According to the CPN-UML, rather than engaging constructively in national discourse, Prachanda has resorted to baseless accusations that undermine Nepal's sovereignty and national dignity. His words reflect disdain for Nepal's sovereignty and an obsession with political maneuvering at the expense of the nation's dignity.  

The party also claimed that Prime Minister Oli has demonstrated balanced and pragmatic foreign policy approach prioritising Nepal's sovereignty and national interests while fostering mutual respect and cooperation with both India and China.

Stating that foreign policy is not a matter for petty political squabbling, and it demands wisdom, caution, and responsibility, the UML said Prachanda's remarks are not only unfounded but also harmful to Nepal's international standing. It also urged Prachanda to retract his statement. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 18 November 2024.