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With the formation of an interim government led by Sushila Karki, tasked with holding elections, debates have emerged over how major powers perceive this development and what direction the new government’s foreign policy may take.

In the aftermath of the Sept 8–9 GenZ uprisings, India swiftly adjusted to the new political reality, expressing its readiness to work with Karki’s administration. Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastav was the first foreign envoy to meet Karki and discuss bilateral relations. Soon after Karki was sworn in, India welcomed the new leadership, expressing hope that it would contribute to peace and stability.

“As a close neighbour, a fellow democracy and a long term development partner, India will continue to work closely with Nepal for the well-being and prosperity of our two peoples and countries,” India’s Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. The following day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Karki on X, signaling India’s keenness to support the new government in organizing elections within six months. Speaking in Manipur, Modi also praised Nepali youth, an act of public diplomacy aimed at the Nepali people.

Karki, for her part, has extended positive gestures toward India even before assuming office. In an interview with Indian television, she said: “First, I will say Namaskaar to Modi Ji. I have a good impression of Modi.” Such remarks suggest New Delhi is likely to invite her for an official visit, an opportunity it denied KP Sharma Oli for over a year.

On Thursday, Modi held a telephone conversation with Karki and reaffirmed India’s support for peace and stability. “Had a warm conversation with Mrs. Sushila Karki, Prime Minister of the Interim Government of Nepal. Conveyed heartfelt condolences on the recent tragic loss of lives and reaffirmed India’s steadfast support for her efforts to restore peace and stability, Also, I extended warm greetings to her and the people of Nepal on their National Day tomorrow,” Modi posted on X.

Prime Minister Karki conveyed to Modi that election will remain topmost priority of the government, with strong determination for accountable, responsive and corruption-free governance, reflecting the aspiration of the youth.

According to the statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Prime Minister Karki also expressed that the historical and close relationship between Nepal and India will continue to be strengthened by multifaceted people to people ties.

By contrast, Beijing has responded more cautiously. Following Karki’s appointment, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson offered a routine response to a media query, reaffirming that China “respects the development path chosen independently by the people of Nepal” and stands ready to advance cooperation under the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence.

Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song called on Prime Minister Sushila Karki on Thursday to extend a congratulatory message. 

“Great Pleasure to call on Rt. Hon. PM Madam, Sushila Karki, and extend our warm congratulations and support. We exchanged views and agreed to further promote our friendship and cooperations,” Ambassador Chen posted on X. 

Navigating Nepal’s evolving politics could be challenging for China. Its engagement strategy has long centered on a small, left-leaning political elite. Over the past decade, this approach brought Beijing significant advantages—most notably under KP Sharma Oli, who signed the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) framework and attended China’s Victory Day parade. However, with the current cabinet expected to draw from diverse groups, China may find it harder to safeguard its interests in Kathmandu.

In a BBC interview, Karki reassured that relations with China would remain unchanged. Yet, an unusual congratulatory message from the Dalai Lama may have unsettled Beijing, given his silence toward previous Nepali prime ministers. China is likely to urge Nepal to ensure the participation of all political forces in the broader process.

For Western powers, the change of government is acceptable as long as Nepal’s constitution, which enshrined federalism, republicanism, inclusion, and secularism, remains protected. Their concerns continue to center on endemic corruption, persistent political instability, and the growing influence of China in Nepali politics. From their perspective, Karki’s leadership offers continuity, provided that democratic values, human rights, and constitutional safeguards are upheld. Support from the West, along with partners such as Japan and Australia, is likely to hinge on these commitments.

As for foreign policy orientation, the interim government is unlikely to make any major departures. Its priorities will largely depend on the composition of the cabinet, but its mandate is limited to conducting elections. Being a caretaker administration with a narrow scope of mandate, it cannot enter into significant agreements with powerful countries.

The 28th Ganeshman Singh Memorial Day is being observed today.

The supreme commander of the people's movement in 1990 is being remembered by recognizing his contribution to the restoration of democracy in the country.

An epitome of sacrifice and courage in Nepali politics, Singh had become a source of inspiration for many after the success of the people's movement in 1990.

Born on Kartik 24,  1972 BS at Chaksibari in Chhetrapati, Kathmandu, Singh passed away on Asoj 2, 2054 BS. Born into a noble family in Kathmandu, he became active in the campaign to overthrow the Rana regime as a member of the Praja Parishad, Nepal's first political party established in 1997 BS.

He was jailed for many years during his strive for democracy in the country. He joined BP Koirala during exile in India, coming together to establish the Nepali National Congress party in 2003 BS.

Ganeshman was a senior minister in the government formed after the first ever parliamentary elections in 2015 BS. He also played a leading role in the 2036 BS student movement and the subsequent referendum.

Marking the occasion of Leader Singh's 28th Memorial Day, various programs are being organized by the sister and well-wisher organizations of the Nepali Congress. The events start with a wreath-laying ceremony scheduled to be held at the statue of Ganeshman Singh at Shobha Bhagwati in Kathmandu this morning.

The government is celebrating Constitution Day and National Day, 2082 on Friday.

The Constitution Day major event will be held at the Army Pavilion, Tundikhel on September 19 and President Ram Chandra Paudel will attend it as the Chief Guest. 

Prime Minister Sushila Karki will be addressing the event, according to Home Ministry's Joint Secretary Rhishi Ram Tiwari.  

Bearing in mind the specific political scenario in the country, the Day will be celebrated accordingly, it is said.

The previous government on August 24 formed the Constitution Day and National Day 2082 Celebration Main Committee to celebrate a decade of the declaration of Nepal's Constitution in a grand manner. 

The Constitution of Nepal, 2072 was proclaimed by the Constituent Assembly on September 20, 2015 as a result of the sacrifices and long struggles of the Nepali people.

On the occasion of the Constitution Day and National Day on September 19, programs will be organized also at the provincial and local levels focusing on the historical background of the current Constitution, its importance, and the inherent aspects of the Constitution.

Bagmati Province Speaker Bhuwan Kumar Pathak resigned from his post on Wednesday.

His resignation letter states that he has resigned from the post of Speaker of the Bagmati Provincial Assembly in accordance with the Constitution of Nepal and the Provincial Assembly Rules 2074 BS.

He is an elected lawmaker from the Rastriya Prajatantra Party.

He was elected Speaker with the support of the then ruling coalition of CPN-UML, CPN (Maoist Center), and Hamro Nepali Party.