Kathmandu: The Government of Nepal has reaffirmed that Lipulekh is an integral part of Nepali territory, drawing attention from both India and China after reports of bilateral trade agreements involving the disputed area. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement summarizing its response to media queries in three key points.

Nepal’s Official Position on Lipulekh

The first point of the statement emphasizes that Nepal’s official map, which is included in the Constitution, clearly depicts Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani east of the Mahakali River as inseparable parts of Nepal.

Diplomatic Communication with India and China

The second point states that the Nepali government has consistently urged India not to undertake any activities in the disputed area, including road construction, expansion, or border trade. It also confirmed that China has been informed that the region belongs to Nepal.

Commitment to Diplomatic Resolution

Finally, the Ministry reiterated Nepal’s commitment to resolving the border issue with India through diplomatic means based on historical treaties, agreements, facts, maps, and evidence, in line with the spirit of close and friendly relations between the two nations.

India-China Agreement Sparks Concern in Nepal

The latest diplomatic tension emerged after India and China reached an additional agreement to advance bilateral trade through Lipulekh, which is also part of Nepal’s territory.

This agreement was announced following a meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Indian officials in New Delhi on Tuesday. A press release from India’s Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the decision on Tuesday night, while the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a note the following day.

Nepal’s Foreign Ministry has expressed serious concern over the development and reiterated its claim over Lipulekh.