By P.R. Pradhan
Seven decades of Nepal-China diplomatic relations
The 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China, being marked on August 1, 2025, is a milestone that reflects both the depth and complexity of the bilateral ties between the two nations. While the formal diplomatic relationship was established on August 1, 1956, the roots of Nepal-China relations run much deeper, with centuries of cultural, religious, and trade exchanges across the Himalayas.
The establishment of diplomatic relations in 1956 formalized a connection that had existed informally for centuries. However, the decision to align diplomatically with the, under Chairman Mao Zedong, was a calculated geopolitical move by Nepal, particularly under King Mahendra’s visionary leadership. As per reports, the late former minister Khajendra Jung Gurung, King Mahendra had taken proactive and secretive steps, including sending a personal letter to Mao, to build a strong and “special” relationship with China—primarily to counterbalance Indian influence.
During the monarchy era, the Royal Palace served as a consistent and centralized institution for diplomacy. This allowed for long-term planning and stable relations, especially with China. The monarchy’s clear strategic posture often contrasted with the more volatile approach of later multiparty governments.
Since the abolition of the monarchy in 2008, China has struggled to find a similarly stable partner in Nepal. While political leaders and parties—especially those branding themselves as communists—publicly affirm support for stronger Nepal-China ties, their actions often contradict their rhetoric.
Despite signing the BRI agreement in 2017, Nepal has yet to finalize or implement any project under its framework. Indian pressure, political hesitancy and internal disagreements have stalled progress.
Initially awarded to a Chinese firm, the contract to construct of the Budhigandaki multiple power project was later revoked without clear justification. India’s reluctance to approve air entry points for airports developed with Chinese support (Bhairahawa and Pokhara) showcases geopolitical friction.
Leaders like Sher Bahadur Deuba have publicly favored Indian over Chinese involvement in key sectors such as hydropower.
As Nepal and China mark seven decades of diplomatic ties, the occasion is both symbolic and sobering. Symbolic, because it commemorates a long-standing partnership based on mutual respect, non-interference, and economic cooperation. Sobering, because it highlights how internal political instability, shifting alliances, and foreign pressure—particularly from India—have hindered Nepal from fully capitalizing on its relationship with China.
The 70th anniversary is a moment to reflect on the past, reassess the present, and reimagine the future of Nepal-China relations. For Nepal, the path forward requires a coherent, independent foreign policy that prioritizes national interests over political appeasement. For China, understanding Nepal’s domestic complexities is key to building sustainable engagement beyond party ideologies.
Ultimately, the foundation laid by leaders like King Mahendra offers a historical lesson: strong, visionary leadership is essential to preserve sovereignty while navigating the pressures of powerful neighbors.
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