Nepal PM Balen Shah Declines Meeting with India’s Foreign Secretary, Citing Protocol Concerns

Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah has reportedly refused to meet India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, insisting on engagements only with officials of equivalent political rank. This has led to the postponement of the planned high-level visit.

According to sources, Shah maintained a firm stance of not holding meetings with foreign officials below the rank of foreign minister. The Indian side had scheduled the trip to strengthen bilateral ties, extend an invitation for Shah to visit India, and address key issues such as trade, security, and border matters following the formation of Nepal’s new government.

The development reflects ongoing sensitivities in India-Nepal relations, including recent disagreements over pilgrimage routes like the Mansarovar Yatra via the Lipulekh Pass area.

The incident has triggered lively discussions online, with some praising Nepal’s firm approach to diplomatic equality and others expressing concern over potential strains in the traditionally close relationship between the two neighbors.