Strategy to use China against India is outdated

Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, Nepal’s prime minister, will be in India on a three-day visit from September 15, on a mission that is widely being seen as an attempt to mend ties between the two countries. This is his second stint as prime minister—he was chosen to the post in 2008, after the decade long Maoist rebellion that he headed came to an end and a 12-point peace agreement was reached between the rebels and major political parties. He comes here at a time when India-Nepal relations have taken a beating, following the Madhesi agitation and the economic blockade of Nepal, widely believed to have been instigated by India.

- Pranay Sharma

Will he manage to put relations back on track is a question being asked both in Kathmandu and New Delhi. He spoke to Pranay Sharma on a wide-range of issues, including the question of China’s role in Nepal and the challenge he faces to deliver on the expectations of the Nepalese people. Excerpts from the interview:

You would soon be visiting India, what would be its significance and how would you like it to be seen?

It will be a very significant visit. We are trying to conclude the peace process based on the 12-point agreement that was initiated by New Delhi. In that, the role of the Indian government, its political parties and its people has a lot of significance. That's why my coming to New Delhi should not be seen merely as a formal visit. Rather, both from the point of view of strengthening Indo-Nepal ties and in terms of helping the peace process to be brought to its logical conclusion, this visit has a strategic significance.

What are your expectations from the Indian side?

First, India should help us conclude the peace process and second, we seek its support on the economic front. Though Nepal is geographically located between two giant neighbours that have achieved tremendous economic growth and development, we continue to be a poor country. I want India to help Nepal generously and I feel such an approach will enhance a sense of cooperation. This will send a positive signal to our people and help strengthen our ties.

What role does China, Nepal’s other giant neighbour, play?