Kathmandu, Apr. 29
Several foreign diplomats and experts said Nepal’s political
transformation has generated considerable international interest and they are
looking at it with optimism.
But its long-term success will depend on the government’s ability to
translate public expectations into tangible outcomes, strengthen institutional
frameworks, and maintain economic and political stability, they said while
speaking at a webinar on 'How the world sees Balen's leadership in Nepal',
organised by Nepal Institute for International Cooperation and Engagement
(NIICE) on Wednesday.
The event brought together 26 diplomats, policymakers, scholars, and
experts from 25 countries including India, the United States, China,
Bangladesh, Pakistan, Japan, Bhutan, and Nepal offering diverse global
perspectives on Nepal’s evolving governance landscape.
Former Indian Ambassador Manjeev Singh Puri said that Nepal’s
transformation is deeply influenced by globalisation, migration, social media,
and rising societal aspirations. He noted that the future of bilateral
relations between Nepal and India should focus on economic cooperation,
connectivity, and mutual benefit, beyond short-term political narratives.
Pankaj Saran further observed that Nepal’s current developments
represent a continuing political evolution rather than a one-time change,
driven by new-generation leadership.
According to him, while expectations are high, the real test lies in
institutional capacity to deliver results amid economic pressures, and that
this moment presents an opportunity to redefine and strengthen India–Nepal
cooperation through forward-looking engagement.
Dr. Zhang Jiadong of China described Nepal’s leadership as pragmatic,
anti-corruption-oriented, and people-centred, with a governance style that
resonates strongly with younger citizens and reflects a broader shift toward
more direct and responsive administration.
Likewise, Dr. Shahab Eman Khan from Bangladesh emphasised that the
current leadership represents a departure from entrenched political structures,
demonstrating how youth-driven aspirations can translate into electoral success
and governance authority.
However, he cautioned that challenges remain, particularly regarding
institutional depth, structured political engagement, and the absence of a
clearly defined ideological framework (like the previous government), which
could affect long-term sustainability.
Similarly, Dr. Aamna Khan from Pakistan noted that Nepal is viewed as
a peaceful, independent, and diplomatically balanced nation, particularly
respected for its ability to maintain relations with major regional powers. She
highlighted Nepal’s potential as a model for regional cooperation, and
encouraged stronger bilateral engagement through education partnerships,
cultural exchanges, diplomatic dialogue, and improved connectivity, including
direct transport links.
From the United States, Dr. Rob York said that political stability
remains a central priority, even as growing public dissatisfaction signals
strong demand for reform. He noted that Nepal’s young demographic profile makes
youth-oriented policymaking critical, while also warning that reform efforts
must be carefully balanced to avoid political volatility. Dr. York further
observed that Nepal’s strategic balancing between China and India is being
closely monitored as a pragmatic approach.
Joëlle Hivonnet of the European Union characterised Nepal’s recent
developments as a notable example of democratic transition with global
relevance, rooted in widespread frustration over corruption, unemployment, and
exclusionary political practices. She stressed that the transition from protest
to effective governance is complex, and that the government’s ability to
implement its reform agenda will be crucial in maintaining public trust.
Bibek Dhoj Thapa, Programme coordinator and Research Associate at
NIICE, said that the discussion was organised to assess how the world is
looking at Prime Minister Balen Shah’s government.
Published in The Rising Nepal daily.
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