Role of Geopolitics in Nepal’s Foreign Policy

Abstract

Geopolitics involves the role of geography influencing politics in international relations. Geography is one of the most important determinants of foreign policy. Geopolitical influence of powerful states in international relations has been an integral part of global politics. The foreign policy maneuvers of small states are often limited which makes it difficult for them to adopt an independent foreign policy. Nepal is situated in a crucial geostrategic location in South Asia between two emerging powers China and India. Such a crucial location of Nepal makes it a strategically important for the vast Indo-Gangetic heartland of India adjoining Nepal as well as for the vast plateau of Tibet in China. Being a small and landlocked state between two giant neighbors, Nepal’s foreign policy has often been influenced by geopolitical realities. While India has traditionally considered South Asia as its sphere of influence, the Chinese influence in the region has been increasing gradually. Non-alignment has been one of the fundamental pillars of Nepal’s foreign policy which has helped Nepal navigate the difficult geopolitical challenges on its foreign policy at various points of time in history. Hence, aligning with one neighbor or trying to use one neighbor against the other would be detrimental to Nepal’s sovereignty. Instead, fostering a relationship based on trust and cooperation would be in the best interests of Nepal. Nepal can remove its landlocked identity and become a land-linked state between the two giant economies to attain economic development which can enable it to adopt a more independent foreign policy. Therefore, Nepal should strive to conduct an independent foreign policy in spite of constraints and challenges to ensure its independence, sovereignty, prosperity as well as significance in the complex geopolitical scenario.