Prakash Kafle / Kathmandu.China has shown unease after Penpa Tsering, the Prime Minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile associated with the Dalai Lama, sent congratulations to Nepal’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Balendra Shah. As China does not recognize the Tibetan government-in-exile, it has taken such contact as a sensitive issue. Balendra Shah, an independent leader who rose from being the Mayor of Kathmandu to Prime Minister, has received this message with interest, which has also created enthusiasm among the Tibetan community living in Nepal. However, China views this as a signal against its “One-China policy” and has increased pressure in its relations with Nepal.
China has officially congratulated Balen while expressing its desire to further strengthen friendship and cooperation with Nepal. However, the involvement of the Tibetan side has made it uncomfortable. In the past, China has strongly opposed leaders from India and other countries maintaining contact with the Dalai Lama. Although Nepal has traditionally supported China’s policy, the activities of Tibetan refugees and their international connections have made diplomatic balance more challenging.
This incident has created new ripples in Nepal–China relations. As Prime Minister, Balen Shah will face the challenge of maintaining a balance between relations with China, the rights of Tibetan refugees, and Nepal’s independent policy. In the coming days, how Nepal manages the sensitive balance between India, China, and the Tibetan issue will remain a key diplomatic question.
