October 2023 Analysis: International Relations & Foreign Affairs
In October, concerns over pre-existing mini-projects within Nepal's Belt and Road Forum document highlighted the need for BRI transparency. Nepal's UN vote for a West Asia humanitarian truce prioritized global peace and citizen safety, while UN Secretary-General Guterres' visit showcased Nepal's strategic importance in climate leadership and diplomacy. Bilateral visits between Nepal and the US strengthened ties, emphasizing the significance of the MCC partnership.
Two mini-projects, the Panda Pack project and the Amity Living Water Project, were included in the BRF's outcome document at the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF) this month. These projects are already operational in Nepal. This has raised questions about their novelty and progress, underscoring the importance of transparent communication and bilateral agreements within the BRI framework.
There is a significant discrepancy between Chinese claims and Nepal Government statements regarding flagship BRI projects, emphasizing the necessity for equitable and genuine contributions that benefit both parties and genuinely support Nepal's development. Deputy Prime Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha's leadership of the delegations at the forum further underscores these concerns, while ensuring alignment with Nepal's development goals and safeguarding its sovereignty and national interests remains crucial.
The four-day visit of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to Nepal is of global significance, underscoring the country's vital role internationally. Guterres' focus on climate change spotlights Nepal's vulnerability and positions the country as a leader in the battle against climate challenges, paving the way for Nepal to play a more substantial role in climate negotiations, such as COP 28.Timeline of Major Events
| Date | Events |
| October 3 | MCC CEO Alice Albright visits Nepal. |
| October 7 | Hamas attack on Israel killed 10 Nepali students, with one still held hostage. |
| October 17-18 | Nepal participates in the 3rd Belt and Road Forum in Beijing |
| October 27 | Nepal supports the UN resolution for a humanitarian truce in the Israel-Hamas conflict. |
| October 29-November 1 | UN Chief's visit highlights Nepal's global role. |
| October 29-November 5 | Foreign Minister Saud's visit to the US. |
Pre-existing Mini-Projects in Nepal Within BRF's Outcome Document
Two mini-projects, the Panda Pack project and the Amity Living Water Project, were included in the BRF's outcome document at the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF) this month. These projects are already operational in Nepal. This has raised questions about their novelty and progress, underscoring the importance of transparent communication and bilateral agreements within the BRI framework.
There is a significant discrepancy between Chinese claims and Nepal Government statements regarding flagship BRI projects, emphasizing the necessity for equitable and genuine contributions that benefit both parties and genuinely support Nepal's development. Deputy Prime Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha's leadership of the delegations at the forum further underscores these concerns, while ensuring alignment with Nepal's development goals and safeguarding its sovereignty and national interests remains crucial.
UN Secretary General Visit
Nepal's Stance in West Asia Conflict
Nepal's recent vote in favor of a UN resolution for a humanitarian truce in the West Asia conflict, particularly between Hamas and Israel, demonstrates its commitment to peace and humanitarian causes on the global stage. The tragic loss of 10 Nepali students' lives, and the ongoing hostage situation involving one student, underscored the need for Nepal to prioritize the safety of its citizens abroad while maintaining its dedication to peace and diplomacy.Nepal–US Bilateral Visits
The bilateral visit between the United States and Nepal, marked by CEO Alice Albright's visit to Nepal and Foreign Minister Narayan Prakash Saud's visit to the US, signifies a significant moment in strengthening diplomatic ties.CEO Albright's interactions with Nepali government officials emphasize the MCC's determination to effectively implement their $697 million compact, focusing on energy access and road maintenance.
Meanwhile, the US-Nepal MCC Project entered into force after Finance Minister Dr. Prakash Sharan Mahat and MCC Vice President Cameron Alford signed a pact.
CESIF Nepal