{"id":27935,"date":"2026-10-25T07:35:30","date_gmt":"2026-10-25T01:50:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/eng.dragonmedia.com.np\/?p=27935"},"modified":"2026-10-25T07:35:30","modified_gmt":"2026-10-25T01:50:30","slug":"nationalism-must-be-measured-by-nepals-interests","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/eng.dragonmedia.com.np\/?p=27935","title":{"rendered":"Nationalism Must Be Measured by Nepal\u2019s Interests<\/strong>"},"content":{"rendered":"

Dragon Media Editorial<\/strong><\/p>\n

Finance Minister Dr Swarnim Wagle\u2019s remarks in New Delhi\u2014that the era of linking nationalism with anti-India sentiment is over\u2014have reignited debate over nationalism and Nepal\u2013India relations. His comments appear to call for a relationship built on economic cooperation and shared opportunities. But saying that \u201cera is over\u201d could also suggest that all concerns linking nationalism to India are now irrelevant. That is where greater clarity is needed. <\/p>\n

Nepal\u2019s ties with India are closely connected to geography, trade, transit, energy, employment and movement between communities. Wagle\u2019s argument that Nepal can benefit from India\u2019s economic progress deserves serious consideration. Expanding trade, securing market access for Nepali goods, and pursuing energy cooperation and investment opportunities can serve Nepal\u2019s interests. Cooperation does not mean surrendering national dignity.<\/p>\n

At the same time, discussion of cooperation must not sideline the difficult aspects of the relationship. Border disputes, inundation in border areas, dependence on transit routes and past tensions have left a deep impression on the Nepali public. Raising these issues does not automatically make someone anti-India. The state has a responsibility to address matters affecting national interests on the basis of facts and to seek solutions. Likewise, branding every agreement or instance of cooperation as a betrayal of the nation is not a thoughtful form of nationalism.<\/p>\n

It is not in Nepal\u2019s interest to reduce nationalism to two opposing extremes. It is wrong to treat those who favour friendship with India as indifferent to national concerns. It is equally wrong to dismiss everyone who questions Indian policies as representing outdated thinking. Criticism should be based on facts and national interests. Cooperation should be transparent, reciprocal and consistent with Nepal\u2019s ability to make its own decisions.<\/p>\n

The practical question is how Nepal\u2019s national interests will be protected in its relationship with India. Whether the issue is a possible prime ministerial visit or talks on trade, energy and infrastructure, the government should clearly state its priorities, expected outcomes and position on sensitive matters. Keeping Parliament, experts and the public informed is not a diplomatic weakness; it is a practice of accountable government.<\/p>\n

The essence of nationalism is neither siding with nor opposing India. It is making decisions firmly on what is right for Nepal. A relationship based on equality and mutual respect can benefit both countries. Nepal should pursue friendship without compromising its national interests and cooperation without weakening its ability to decide for itself. This should be the test of Nepal\u2019s foreign policy: whether each step strengthens the country\u2019s sovereignty, dignity and prosperity.<\/p>\n

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