Nepal, India, and China: The Bridge of Prosperity and the Strategic Role of Sikkim-Darjeeling

# By Prem Sagar Poudel

Nepal, India, and China: The relationship between the three South Asian nations is deep in history. The political, cultural, economic, and geographical ties of these nations are crucial for regional stability and prosperity. The role of Sikkim and Darjeeling is special in this context. Because these places are acting as a bridge that brings the three nations closer together. This article will briefly analyze the foundations that connect Nepal, India, and China and the role of Sikkim and Darjeeling.

The base of the relationship between the three nations extends across various aspects. Which has bound them to each other in a deep bond. These nations are interdependent on each other from a geographical, cultural, historical, and economic perspective.

The Himalayan mountain range is a natural border between three countries. It has made Nepal, India, and China geographically close. The high mountains and river systems of this range have ensured the shared utilization of climate and natural resources of these nations. The conservation and management of these shared resources have created opportunities for regional collaboration.

There are shared traditions of Hinduism and culture among the various communities of Nepal and India. Buddhism has a deep influence on Nepal and China (Tibet region), which has further deepened the cultural ties between the two nations. These shared cultural and religious values have played a significant role in connecting the three nations to each other.

The ancient Silk Road and the Lhasa-Kathmandu trade route deepened economic and cultural exchanges between these nations. These trade routes still serve as the basis for intensive trade and transport collaboration.

China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and India’s Neighborhood First policy are providing significant economic opportunities for Nepal. Trade agreements with Nepal, India, and China are a work of further connecting these countries.

Nepal has been pursuing a balanced foreign policy, maintaining coordination between India and China, and ensuring regional stability. This policy has provided Nepal with an opportunity for stability and partnership between two major powers.

Sikkim and Darjeeling are important venues in the North-Eastern region of India. These places play an important role from a strategic and economic perspective due to their proximity to the borders with Nepal, China (Tibet), and Bhutan.

Darjeeling has a large Gorkha community, which has worked for Nepali-speaking and cultural groups to connect with India. Darjeeling has served as a conduit for the spread of Nepal’s cultural property and traditions in India.

The Nathu La Pass in Sikkim is historically known as a trade route between India and China. The Pass plays an important role as a means of connecting the economies of both countries. Darjeeling’s tea industry and tourism have also contributed greatly to local and regional economic prosperity.

Although Sikkim’s border with China is tactically sensitive, the region can play an important role in reducing military tensions between India and China. Sikkim’s tactical location helps maintain peace and stability between India and China.

Some initiatives are important to further deepen the relationship between the three nations:

There should be cooperation in rail, road, and energy connectivity connecting Nepal, India, and China, with Sikkim and Darjeeling as the center. For example, the development of the Nepal-India-China transit corridor would boost trade and message exchange between these countries.

It is necessary to build a tourism circuit based on the religious and cultural heritage of the Himalayan region. This can promote mutual understanding and cultural exchange among the three nations.

A joint research center for climate change and glacier conservation in the Himalayan region could be established, which would help combat the climate crisis and achieve environmental prosperity.

By making strong use of regional organizations like BIMSTEC, China can be included in a tripartite agreement on trade, security, and development.

The partnership between the three nations can be further strengthened by collaborating on education and health facilities in the border areas, through student exchanges and the establishment of joint universities.

Although the relationship between Nepal, India, and China is extremely complex, Sikkim and Darjeeling have played an important role in connecting these nations with each other. Mutual trust, cooperation, and long-term planning are essential for regional peace and prosperity. Initiatives based on the common interests of the three nations can open the door to new opportunities in South Asia.