Diplomatic Surprise: Chinese Ambassador meets US counterpart

In a surprising move, the Chinese ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song, took to Twitter to announce his meeting with the US Ambassador to Nepal, Dean R. Thompson, on May 9th, 2023 (Tuesday).

The tweet reads, “Happy to meet with H.E. Ambassador Dean R. Thompson @USAmbNepal. We compared notes on how to help Nepal to develop.”

 

Happy to meet with H.E. Ambassador Dean R. Thompson @USAmbNepal . We compared notes on how to help Nepal to develop. pic.twitter.com/hNnrI6xfeL

— Ambassador Chen Song (@PRCAmbNepal) May 9, 2023

This development comes at a time when Nepal once again has been facing a probability of political instability and serious economic challenges, with a spate of corruption scandals that has come to light, implicating high-profile leaders and larger political parties.

The meeting between the two ambassadors has raised eyebrows, as China and the US have been at odds on several issues, including trade, human rights, and territorial disputes.

However, the tweet suggests that the two ambassadors discussed ways to help Nepal develop, indicating that both China and the US are willing to set aside their differences to aid a struggling nation.

While the tweet may seem positive on the surface, it also raises concerns about China’s growing influence in Nepal and the potential implications for the country’s sovereignty.

The fact that the Chinese ambassador is meeting with the US ambassador to discuss how to help Nepal develop also raises questions about the role of the US in Nepal. While the US has been a key ally of Nepal for many years, it is also facing growing competition from China in the region. This could lead to a situation where Nepal becomes caught in the middle of a power struggle between the two superpowers.

Overall, the tweet from the Chinese ambassador to Nepal is both positive and concerning. While it is good to see diplomats from different countries working together to help Nepal develop, there are also legitimate concerns about the motives behind these efforts and the potential implications for Nepal’s sovereignty.

Nepal has been grappling with issues such as high unemployment, poverty, and a lack of basic infrastructure.

It remains to be seen what specific actions will be taken by China and the US to help Nepal.