Arzu Rana's diplomatic debut: Redefining diplomatic access

Kathmandu, August 20 - During Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba's recent visit to India, discussions have arisen about the ease with which she met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This ease of access is notable because no previous Nepalese foreign minister has met with the Indian Prime Minister so effortlessly. Some speculate that Rana’s personal relationship with Modi may have facilitated this direct engagement.

Originally, a meeting with Prime Minister Modi was not planned for Foreign Minister Deuba's visit. However, Deuba managed to arrange a personal meeting with Modi, despite initial uncertainties about whether this meeting would take place.

Former ambassador Bijaykant Karna noted that this was not their first meeting; Modi and Deuba have met on several occasions before. Karna suggested that their previous interactions may have made this latest meeting easier.

Arzu Rana Deuba is not just a foreign minister; she is also the wife of former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, the Congress party leader, and a prominent figure in Nepali politics. Karna mentioned that Modi’s willingness to meet her reflects her significant status in Nepal.

It is typically challenging for Nepalese leaders to meet Indian Prime Ministers outside of official engagements, but high-ranking officials and party leaders from Nepal have managed to meet with Indian leaders more readily. Indian diplomats and officials have also been able to meet with Nepali leaders during their visits.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri recently returned from a visit to Nepal where he met with a range of Nepali leaders. Similarly, Dr. Vijay Chauthaiwale, head of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s foreign affairs department, also had direct meetings with key Nepali figures.

Foreign relaions expert Tanka Karki commented that it is not unusual for a foreign minister to meet with a prime minister, and such meetings are beneficial for both countries involved. Karki emphasized that the value of the meeting lies in the tangible benefits it brings to Nepal rather than the fact of the meeting itself.

India has had strained relations with several neighboring countries, including Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Pakistan, and Myanmar. Karki suggested that Modi’s engagement with Deuba might be part of a strategy to prevent further deterioration in relations with Nepal.

Former Ambassador Karna highlighted that diplomatic issues are often handled through formal channels, but direct discussions between leaders can be more impactful. He expressed hope that Deuba’s direct interaction with Modi will positively influence Nepal-India relations in the future.