From Delhi to Beijing: Foreign Minister Khanal Continues Regional Diplomacy

Kathmandu- Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal is set to embark on an official visit to China from June 14 to June 17, continuing a series of high-level diplomatic engagements in the region just days after completing a three-day visit to India.The Ministry of Foreign Affairs formally announced the visit on Friday, stating that Khanal will travel to China at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.During his stay in Beijing, Minister Khanal is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with his Chinese counterpart. The discussions are expected to focus on further strengthening Nepal-China relations, expanding bilateral cooperation, and advancing issues of mutual interest between the two neighboring countries.

The Foreign Minister will also meet senior Chinese officials and participate in an investment conference organized by the Embassy of Nepal in Beijing. The event aims to promote foreign investment opportunities in Nepal and deepen economic cooperation between the two countries. Khanal is also expected to interact with members of the Chinese business community.In addition, he will attend a reception hosted by the Nepali Embassy and engage with members of the Nepali diaspora living in China.The visit comes shortly after Khanal’s official trip to India from June 5 to June 7, underscoring Nepal’s continued diplomatic engagement with its two largest neighbors. Observers believe that a range of bilateral and regional issues could be discussed during the Beijing visit, including trade, connectivity, investment, and matters related to cross-border cooperation.

There is also speculation that Nepal may raise concerns regarding the Lipulekh region, where India and China recently opened a trade route through territory claimed by Nepal. While the government has not officially confirmed the agenda, the issue remains a matter of national interest and could feature in diplomatic discussions.Minister Khanal is scheduled to return to Kathmandu on June 17 following the conclusion of his official engagements in China.