Geopolitics of Nepal: opportunities and challenges to its national security
Date
2025
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Abstract
Nepal, a landlocked country nestled on the southern slopes of the Himalayas, holds a strategic position between two major global powers: India and China. The country's northern border is entirely demarcated by the Himalayas, separating it from the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) of China. This unique geographic positioning, coupled with the presence of vital mountain passes such as Kuti and Kerong, underscores Nepal's significant role in regional geopolitics. Historically, Nepal's attempts to control these passes have been thwarted, leading to their strategic occupation by Tibetan and Chinese forces. The construction of the Kathmandu-Kodari road with Chinese assistance further highlights the geopolitical importance of these routes.
In terms of security, Nepal lacks a substantial defense establishment and has historically relied on maintaining friendly relations with its neighbors. Treaties with China and India, including the 1950 Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, reflect Nepal's strategy to safeguard its sovereignty. Nepal's strategic significance has grown with China's rise as a global power, positioning Nepal as a potential flashpoint in Sino-Indian rivalry. However, economic interdependence between China and India has thus far mitigated the risk of direct confrontation.
Nepal‘s geopolitical leverage is both an opportunity and a challenge. The nation‘s location enables it to draw economic and infrastructural support from both India and China. China‘s investments in Nepal and the strategic Kathmandu-Kodari road illustrate Beijing's interest in Nepal's stability and economic development. Conversely, India's historical and economic ties with Nepal make it a crucial partner, evident in India's role in Nepal's political developments.
The geopolitical dynamics involving Nepal extend beyond regional tensions. The United States' strategic interests in South Asia, particularly in containing China's influence, add another layer of complexity. China's support for Pakistan serves to keep India preoccupied in the region, indirectly impacting Nepal.
Despite the opportunities for economic growth and infrastructure development through engagement with both India and China, Nepal faces significant challenges. Political instability, governance issues, and internal ethnic divisions weaken its capacity to address security threats. Border disputes and the risk of natural disasters further exacerbate these vulnerabilities.
To navigate these complex dynamics, Nepal must adopt a balanced approach, balancing diplomatic engagement with both neighbors while strengthening internal cohesion and security infrastructure. Leveraging international platforms such as the United Nations and regional organizations like SAARC and BIMSTEC can enhance Nepal's strategic positioning. It is in this context; the study explains the significance of Nepal‘s geopolitical location. It explores the opportunities for Nepal due to its geopolitical location and inspect the challenges to Nepal‘s National Security due to its geopolitical location.
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Keywords
Geopolitics, National security