Military Diplomacy: A Historical Lifeline for Nepal’s Survival

25 October 2024, NIICE Commentary 9682
Sumitra Karki

Nepal’s military diplomacy has played a pivotal role in its survival as an independent nation, especially considering its geographic location between two powerful neighbors: India and China. Historically, Nepal’s military strength and diplomatic acumen have been intertwined to protect its sovereignty. The concept of military diplomacy in Nepal can be traced back to the unification period in the 18th century under King Prithvi Narayan Shah. His diplomatic approach included maintaining friendly relations with both British India and Qing China, balancing their influence while expanding Nepal’s territorial boundaries. He famously referred to Nepal as a “yam between two boulders,” emphasizing the need for strategic diplomacy to navigate pressures from the north and south.

In the early 19th century, Nepal’s military conflict with the British East India Company in the Anglo-Nepalese War also known as the ‘Gorkha War’ (1 November 1814–4 March 1816) resulted in the ‘Sugauli Treaty’, which reduced Nepal’s territory but established it as a buffer state. Despite the military defeat, Nepal’s ability to negotiate terms and maintain its sovereignty was a testament to its emerging military diplomacy. The recruitment of Nepali soldiers (Gurkhas) into British and later Indian military forces further solidified Nepal’s position on the global stage, as the Gurkhas became internationally recognized for their bravery and skill.

During the Rana regime (1846–1951), Nepal’s military diplomacy was largely influenced by its alliance with British India. The Ranas ensured Nepal’s independence by supporting British colonial efforts during the two World Wars, providing soldiers and logistical support, which further entrenched Nepal’s military relevance. After the fall of the Ranas and the establishment of democracy, Nepal’s participation in UN peacekeeping missions became a critical component of its military diplomacy. As one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping forces, Nepal established itself as a proponent of global peace and security, despite its small size.

Post-1950, military diplomacy became even more nuanced as Nepal navigated the Cold War era, maintaining a non-aligned foreign policy. The Panchayat era (1961–1990) under King Mahendra and King Birendra saw Nepal engage in more complex military diplomacy, with military aid agreements from India, China, the US, and the Soviet Union. King Birendra’s proposal for Nepal to be declared a ‘Zone of Peace’ reflected Nepal’s diplomatic efforts to assert its neutrality and avoid entanglements in regional conflicts.

Survival and Nepal’s Global Standing Due to Military Diplomacy

Nepal’s military diplomacy has been a cornerstone of its survival as a sovereign state, particularly due to its strategic location between two regional giants—India and China. By adopting a neutral and non-aligned foreign policy, Nepal has successfully avoided being drawn into regional conflicts while benefiting from its proximity to both nations. This balanced approach has allowed it to maintain friendly relations with India and China, ensuring that its security interests are safeguarded without aligning exclusively with one power.

A critical aspect of Nepal’s military diplomacy has been its active participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions. Nepal is one of the largest contributors of troops to UN peacekeeping operations, which has bolstered its international reputation as a responsible and peace-loving nation. This involvement has provided Nepal with a global platform, enabling it to forge strong ties with other countries, including global powers like the United States. By contributing to global peace and security, Nepal has enhanced its diplomatic reach and influence far beyond its size.

Moreover, Nepal’s ability to balance its relationships with major powers, including India, China, the US, and other international actors, demonstrates its skillful use of military diplomacy to protect its sovereignty and reinforce its global standing in a complex and dynamic geopolitical landscape.

Nepal’s Military Diplomacy in the Changing Geopolitical Landscape of South Asia

In the contemporary South Asian geopolitical context, Nepal’s military diplomacy continues to evolve in response to the shifting power dynamics between India and China, as well as global trends. Nepal’s unique geographical location has placed it at the center of various regional and global interests, requiring the country to carefully navigate its diplomatic relations to ensure both security and sovereignty.

India, as Nepal’s southern neighbor, has historically had a significant influence on Nepal’s military and diplomatic affairs. From the 1950 India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship to regular military training exchanges, joint exercises, and arms supplies, Nepal’s relationship with India is deep-rooted. However, in recent years, Nepal has also sought to diversify its military partnerships, notably enhancing its ties with China. The rise of China as a global power has encouraged Nepal to engage in more strategic military cooperation with Beijing, evidenced by the increasing frequency of military exchanges and aid programs. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has further opened avenues for cooperation, not only in economic infrastructure but also in military logistics and training.

The strategic significance of Nepal for China lies in its proximity to Tibet and India. As Nepal adopts a more balanced military and diplomatic approach with both India and China, it aims to leverage this relationship for its economic and military security without becoming overly dependent on either neighbor. Nepal’s military modernization, supported by China, includes supply of non-lethal military equipment and officer training programs, which, while modest in scale, reflect the growing importance of China-Nepal military ties.

Nepal’s military diplomacy is not confined to its immediate neighbors alone. It maintains close ties with the United States, especially through peacekeeping initiatives. The US has been a long-standing supporter of Nepal’s peacekeeping contributions, providing military training, funding, and logistical support to enhance Nepal’s capabilities. Through this, Nepal has cultivated an image of neutrality and global responsibility, further strengthening its diplomatic posture in South Asia. Army Command and Staff College Shivapuri also invites officers from several countries such as Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Kenya, Nigeria, Maldives, UK and others apart from India, China and the US.

The global war on terror, growing regional militancy, and border security issues has also added new dimensions to Nepal’s military diplomacy. As threats such as terrorism and cross-border smuggling increase, Nepal’s role in regional security, particularly in cooperation with SAARC countries, has gained prominence. Nepal’s membership in regional organizations like SAARC and BIMSTEC also emphasizes its commitment to collaborative security efforts in the region.

Conclusion

Nepal’s military diplomacy has evolved as a core component of its survival strategy, from historical conflicts and alliances to modern peacekeeping and regional security engagements. By balancing relationships with powerful neighbors like India and China, and global powers like the US and UK, while participating actively in global peacekeeping missions, Nepal has positioned itself as a small yet vital player in South Asia. As the geopolitical landscape continues to shift, Nepal’s ability to maintain this delicate balance will remain crucial for its sovereignty and long-term security. Military diplomacy, therefore, will continue to be a cornerstone of Nepal’s foreign policy and its historical lifeline for survival.

Sumitra Karki is the Director at NIICE.