The foreign policy of Nepal is guided by the abiding faith in the United Nations and policy of nonalignment. The basic principles guiding the foreign policy of the country include:
- Mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty;
- Non-interference in each other’s internal affairs
- Respect for mutual equality
- Non-aggression and the peaceful settlement of disputes
- Cooperation for mutual benefit
The foreign policy of Nepal is also guided by the international law and other universally recognized norms governing international relations. The value of world peace also constitutes a significant element guiding the foreign policy of the country.
Constitutional Provisions on Foreign Policy
The Directive Principles and the State Policy of the Interim Constitution of Nepal, 2063 (2007) identify the cardinal principles, parameters, and general directions of Nepal’s foreign policy. They are:
- The State shall, in its international relations, be guided by the objective of enhancing the dignity of the nation in the international arena by maintaining the sovereignty, integrity and independence of the country. (Clause 34.6)
State Policy
- The foreign policy of Nepal shall be based on the principles of the United Nations Charter, nonalignment, the principles of Panchsheel, international law and the norms of world peace. (Clause 35.21)
- The State shall pursue a policy of making continuous efforts to institutionalize peace in Nepal through international norms and values, by promoting cooperative and good relations in economic, social and other spheres with neighbouring friendly nations and all other countries of the world, on the basis of equality. (Clause 35.22)
Policy
In accordance with the overriding objective and the fundamental principles guiding the foreign policy of the country Nepal has been pursuing a policy of making continuous efforts to institutionalize peace by promoting cooperative and good relations in the economic, social and other spheres on the basis of equality with neighbouring and all other countries of the world. Being desirous of promoting cordial relations and cooperation with other countries, Nepal has established Diplomatic Relations with 132 countries in the world. It is an active member of the Non-Aligned Movement, the United Nations (see Nepal and the UN), its Specialised Agencies as well as other International Organizations, and a founding member of and active player in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (visit Nepal and the SAARC).