Disputes with neighbors can be resolved through candid talks, says Nepal PM Oli
Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli stated that it is common for neighboring countries to have issues, but these can be resolved through open dialogue. Speaking at the release of a book by former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Kamal Thapa in the capital today, the Prime Minister emphasized that there would be no problems between neighboring countries if solutions were sought based on evidence, international obligations, and national interests.While launching the book titled Kutniti Ra Bhurajniti (Diplomacy and Geopolitics), Prime Minister Oli highlighted Nepal’s balanced relationships with its neighbors, grounded in honesty and impartiality. “We will not use one neighbor’s position against another, nor will we wish ill upon anyone. We will not allow our land to be used against any of our neighbors. We advocate neutrality and peaceful resolution,” he asserted.
The Prime Minister reiterated Nepal’s adherence to UN principles, adding that the country should boldly speak out against any violations of these principles. He stressed that evidence, rather than arguments, should be the basis for resolving disputes.Oli also expressed sensitivity to global peace and the security of Nepali citizens, warning that no country should undermine another’s pride for self-interest.On the occasion, the Prime Minister urged India to accept the report of the Eminent Persons’ Group (EPG), which was established with the consent of top leaders from both Nepal and India to review the 1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship, among other issues. He noted that accepting the report would facilitate further dialogue on border disputes.Additionally, Prime Minister Oli referred to the trade and transit treaty with China, signed during his tenure as Prime Minister in 2015 amid India’s blockade of Nepal, as a historic event.