A small country like Nepal and others, might find it hard to balance rival powers. For struggling countries, for years they have received considerable help from developed countries like China, America, or Russia.
In the past for instance, the Chinese have helped build cement factories in Nepal. Meanwhile, Americans have been the greatest helpers in the medical sector. So, it is basically hard for Nepal to take sides when these two giants are conflicting. Especially, when America and China are on the tensions during Russia’s invasion, small countries are struggling to take side.
In the case of Nepal, in the UN, the country chooses to condemn Mr. Putin. Apparently, Ukraine became the subject of conversation between Antony Blinken and Sher Bahadur Deuba. Antony Blinken, America’s top diplomat, made time to meet with Sher Bahadur Deuba the prime minister of Nepal.
The purpose of the meeting is actually marking the 75-year-long ties between America and Nepal. The meeting also sought approval of MCC (Millenium Challenge Corporation) granting $500 from America. From the scheme, it actually benefits Nepal.
But Russia’s invasion leads to Nepal’s decision on to whom it must choose.
For the relationship with China, China is tempting Nepal with investment and loans. It influences foreign policy broadly. America recently became interested in Nepal as well. It sees Nepal as a venue to counter China. Amish Raj Mulmi, author of All Roads Lead North said that Nepal is a yam between two boulders. Now with Russia, it becomes a yam between three boulders.
Weighing the relationship, MCC basically marks the biggest foreign-aid program. Taking only five year it could improve east-west road links and build power lines transmission to India. Hydropower investment gives Nepal a surplus of energy, India is its biggest customer. Mr. Blinken remarked that Nepal is a part of the Indo-Pacific strategy to counter China.
