Nepal Calls India Its Top Partner After PM Balen Shah's Border Remark Triggers Storm

Days after a border controversy embarrassed Nepal's political leadership, Kathmandu appears to be changing course. Nepal's Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal arrived in New Delhi with a clear message: India remains Nepal's most important partner. He spoke of leaving behind "old baggage" and building a transformative relationship with Delhi. The visit saw high-level meetings with NSA Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, with discussions focused on security, connectivity, energy cooperation, digital payments and regional stability. Is Nepal quietly resetting its India policy? Why is Delhi placing renewed emphasis on strategic trust with Kathmandu? And what role does China play in the background? This report breaks down the significance of the latest India-Nepal diplomatic outreach.