Nepal’s Coalition Govt Commits to Independent Foreign Policy and Efficient Management

Kathmandu, Mar 19 - In a significant move, Nepal's newly formed five-party coalition government has pledged to pursue an independent foreign policy aimed at protecting its national interests. This commitment was articulated during the unveiling of the coalition's common minimum programme at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar. The event saw the presence of Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda and leading figures from the parties constituting the ruling alliance.

Representative image

The programme highlights the government's dedication to upholding sovereignty and territorial integrity while striving for strong and balanced international relations. A key focus is on maintaining equitable, reliable, and amicable relations with all nations, particularly neighbouring India and China, with an emphasis on sovereign equality, mutual interest, and respect.

Additionally, the document outlines priorities such as women’s participation, empowerment, social inclusion, transitional justice, sustainable peace, youth issues, sports, tourism, culture, and social harmony. These areas are deemed essential for the coalition government's operational guideline.

The preamble of the policy document asserts the government's resolve to instil hope and confidence among citizens by addressing challenges like economic downturns and impunity. Bishnu Prasad Paudel, CPN-UML vice chair and coordinator of the government's Minimum Common Programme Draft Committee, read out the document.

The formation of this coalition was marked by Prachanda's departure from the Nepali Congress to join forces with the Communist Party of Nepal Unified Marxist-Leninist (CPN-UML), led by former premier KP Sharma Oli. This alliance led to a reshuffling in the cabinet on March 6, incorporating members from all five coalition parties.

Nepal has faced political instability with 13 governments over the last 16 years. In this context, Prime Minister Prachanda has sought parliamentary confidence three times since assuming office in December 2022.

The common minimum policy document also commits to ensuring financial institutions' integrity, enhancing public infrastructure, promoting good governance and efficient service delivery. It aims to boost employment, entrepreneurship, domestic production, and coordinate physical infrastructure development. Additionally, it includes plans for activating the share market through policy reforms and mobilizing climate financing.

Emphasizing the welfare of the Nepali people as its core objective, the document vows to address despondency among citizens by completing peace process tasks and providing support to conflict-affected individuals and families through treatment, employment opportunities, rehabilitation, compensation, and reintegration efforts.

This comprehensive approach underscores Nepal's ambition to navigate its political challenges while fostering a conducive environment for growth and stability in a region marked by dynamic geopolitical currents.