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As a member of the United Nations and the leader of the Non-Aligned Movement, Nepal continues to be a strong advocate for global peace and brotherhood among all nations. Nepal’s foreign policy is deeply rooted in fostering friendly relations, particularly with its neighboring countries, and the bond with India holds special significance.

The open border shared with India has been a vital aspect of the relationship between the two countries. This unique arrangement has facilitated cultural and religious connections, allowing people from both sides to traverse freely and strengthen the ties that bind them together. The harmonious coexistence of diverse cultures and traditions in the border regions has been a testament to the enduring friendship between Nepal and India.

In recent times, the speeches of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visits to countries like the USA and France have garnered considerable attention. In the USA, Prime Minister Modi emphasized India’s status as the ‘mother of democracy’, recognizing the USA’s role as a champion of advanced democracy. Such acknowledgment of each other’s democratic values fosters a deeper understanding and mutual respect between the two nations.

The strengthening partnership between India and the USA has extended beyond just diplomatic ties to include economic and cultural cooperation. The return of over 100 stolen antiquities to India by the US government represents not only the commitment to curbing illicit trade in cultural artifacts but also symbolizes the deepening cultural and financial partnerships between the two countries.

During his visit to France, Prime Minister Modi praised the significant contributions of business leaders from both India and France, further bolstering the relations between the two nations. This collaboration has extended to critical areas such as defense and climate change, wherein India and France have cooperated to address global challenges collectively.

While India’s economic growth and progress have been remarkable, there have been calls for a stronger focus on justice and the justice system under Modi’s leadership. As a leader, Modi must strive to bring together different sections of society and make them feel equally included in India’s democratic fabric. It is crucial to listen to and address the concerns of all citizens to truly establish India as the ‘mother of democracy’.

For India to achieve its economic vision of becoming one of the world’s top five economies, it must prioritize crucial issues such as food security, agriculture, economy, and industries. Engaging with opposition parties and formulating common minimum programs to address their concerns will ensure inclusivity and a more balanced approach to governance.

Furthermore, when formulating foreign policies, it is essential for the Modi government to consider the perspectives of not only the opposition but also his colleagues in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In doing so, India can present a united front in its international engagements, projecting a more robust image on the global stage.

While pursuing its growth as a global leader, India should not overlook the situation of its neighboring countries. The Modi government should extend assistance and support to these nations, helping them strengthen their living standards and fostering genuine friendships with them. This approach will not only enhance regional cooperation but also contribute to India's standing as a responsible and caring global leader.

One significant step in enhancing regional cooperation would be to revitalize the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). Modi can take the lead in encouraging all SAARC member-states to unite on various global issues, thereby presenting a cohesive and influential voice on the international stage.

Neglecting the development and prosperity of neighboring countries, including Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal, will undermine India’s overall progress and prosperity. Therefore, India’s focus should encompass regional economic development, fostering peace, and promoting shared prosperity across the entire South Asian region.

In conclusion, Nepal remains committed to advocating for global peace and brotherhood, and India’s role as a neighboring friend is essential in achieving this vision. Prime Minister Modi’s leadership can be further strengthened by emphasizing justice, inclusivity, and cooperation with neighboring countries. By fostering regional cooperation and supporting the prosperity of neighboring nations, India can truly position itself as a global leader and a beacon of democracy in the world.

The author is a member of the Supreme Court Bar and has been practicing corporate law for around three decades

On June 12, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) announced that the United States, one of the five permanent members of the United Nations, will rejoin the agency in July, four years after its exit from the agency.

There’s no dearth of news reports featuring the United States, the global economic powerhouse and the sole superpower, on any given day. From the Russia-Ukraine war to strained relations with China and increasing bonhomie with India, the United States seems to be present everywhere around the globe. This is because the present world order is primarily US-led.

While the US is not a member of regional blocs like the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC), Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), or the European Union (EU), it wields significant influence in these groupings. As one of the five permanent members of the UN, the US has a vital role in effective functioning of the world body. Its re-entry into UNESCO should be read in this context.

Despite the absence of direct physical connectivity, the US is like a neighbor for countries like Nepal. This feeling perhaps arises due to America’s contribution to Nepal’s development in areas such as education, healthcare and infrastructure. The influence of several powerful nations remains limited to their respective regions. They have yet to extend their reach globally. 

Such is not the case with the United States. 

The 2024 US presidential election has also captured the attention, particularly of the democratic world. While American citizens will be electing their president, their mandate will impact the whole world and Nepal will not remain immune from this. As the United States advocates for the law, democracy and human rights, many nations take it as an exemplary nation.

It is for this very reason that the United States draws global attention. With the presidential election not that far away, global attention toward America has only increased.  

Eyeing the most powerful position in the world, the Republican Party is already in the fray. Around a dozen politicians from the party have launched their campaigns seeking nomination. Among the candidates is the former President Donald Trump, who has faced multiple sexual abuse, fraud, and defamation cases.

The Democratic Party is not lagging behind, either. Currently, it has three leading contenders for the presidential nomination, including the incumbent Joe Biden. Speculation has also arisen regarding Biden’s age, health, and his effectiveness as President.

For a large number of people around the world, especially those concerned about democracy, human rights and the rule of law, the US presidential election is a kind of festival. As a practicing lawyer and a student of human rights and democracy, I will be watching the election with immense interest.

A member of the Supreme Court Bar, the author has been practicing corporate law for three decades

Recently, I got an opportunity to visit the US to participate in an international conference on franchise law. During the trip, an unexpected incident left a lasting impression on me. As I entered the seminar hall, a Pakistani lawyer attending the seminar rushed toward me, shouting “Aagaye Nepali” (the Nepali has come), recognizing my nationality through the traditional dhaka topi I was wearing. Soon after, an Indian lawyer approached us, informing me that the event manager was also a Nepali! This incident was an enlightening experience that made me contemplate the significance of regional cooperation. This encounter prompted me to reflect on the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and the possibility of its revival. Why did King Birendra initiate this forum along with fellow leaders from the region? What compelled leaders from Bangladesh, Pakistan and India to associate themselves with SAARC? It is time to start the debate surrounding SAARC anew, not only among the leaders of member countries but also among the people, as we share strong people-to-people relations. In recent years, SAARC's progress has suffered, primarily due to the India-Pakistan dispute. Nepal’s initiative to include China in SAARC has also led to reduced engagement from India. Despite these setbacks, the people of SAARC member-states continue to recognize the importance of the regional forum. SAARC holds immense potential for problem-sharing, meeting common needs, fostering brotherhood and ensuring peace and security. Moreover, it can drive economic and infrastructural development among member-states. Drawing inspiration from the European Union, India proposed a single currency for the SAARC region. Additionally, India envisioned a united force for regional security and defense, a common foreign policy, and passport facilities. However, smaller neighboring nations expressed doubts about the feasibility and long-term sustainability of such proposals. It is important to address these concerns and engage in meaningful discussions that consider the perspectives of all member-states. By doing so, SAARC can overcome the challenges that have hindered its progress. SAARC’s original objectives were to overcome pervasive poverty, under-development, and job scarcity.  These objectives must be the focal point of any revival effort. Member-states should come together with renewed dedication, ensuring that SAARC strictly adheres to its original purpose. As Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal starts his visit to India from Wednesday, I urge the Nepali delegation to prioritize the functionality of SAARC during the prime minister-level discussion. I wish the Nepali side can actively work toward resolving the current stalemate. The revival of SAARC holds tremendous potential for the prosperity of South Asia. SAARC was established with good intentions, and its member-states must continue to work together with the same spirit. By embracing collaboration and refocusing on its original objectives, SAARC can become an effective platform for regional cooperation, enhancing the lives of millions across South Asia. By rekindling the spirit of SAARC, we can foster unity, understanding and progress among member-states. Let us seize this opportunity to build a brighter future for South Asia. And my Pakistani and Indian friends also have similar thoughts. The author is a member of the Supreme Court Bar and has been practicing corporate law for around three decades