Nepal Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli is preparing for an official visit to China in early December, signalling his country’s interest in strengthening ties with its northern neighbour, with experts noting its potential to rebalance Kathmandu’s historically India-centric foreign policy.
Nepal’s newly appointed leaders traditionally make India their first foreign trip, however, Oli did not receive the invitation from New Delhi usually extended after the formation of a new government.
Oli formed a coalition government between his Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist) and the Nepali Congress in July after his predecessor Pushpa Kamal Dahal, known as Prachanda, lost a vote of confidence in parliament in July.
Nepal has not officially announced the prime minister’s visit from December 2 to 6, despite Beijing’s invitation. The deputy chairman of Oli’s party said during a meeting this week, the trip will “emphasise on implementing the high-level agreements” signed between the two countries and prioritising Nepal’s national interests.
Oli’s visit is being closely watched in New Delhi, though analysts say the trip is less about breaking traditions – Prachanda visited China before India in 2008 – and more about sending a signal to its southern neighbour.
While Nepal has closer ties with India historically and culturally, a notable shift occurred after India objected to the country’s new constitution and enforced an unofficial blockade in 2015, pushing Nepal to seek help from China for fuel.
