The Government of India, on Wednesday, firmly rejected Nepal’s objections to the resumption of India-China trade through the Lipulekh Pass, dismissing the neighboring country’s stance as unjustified, untenable, and lacking any basis in historical facts. Nepal had earlier expressed strong opposition by issuing a statement that described the Kalapani region, located on the southern side of the Lipulekh Pass, as an integral part of Nepalese territory. Along with this territorial assertion, Kathmandu reiterated its call to New Delhi to refrain from engaging in activities in the disputed area, including road expansion and border trade.
In response, India categorically refuted these claims, underlining that its position on the matter has always been consistent and transparent. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that Nepal’s territorial assertions were not only unjustified but also devoid of historical evidence. India stated that any unilateral expansion or artificial enlargement of territorial boundaries was completely unacceptable and would not alter the realities on the ground. Stressing its long-standing position, New Delhi pointed out that border trade between India and China through the Lipulekh Pass began as early as 1954 and had continued for decades without dispute, until recent interruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and other external developments.
Despite rejecting Nepal’s remarks, India also conveyed its willingness to engage in constructive dialogue. It reassured Kathmandu that it remains open to discussions on resolving outstanding boundary issues through peaceful means, dialogue, and diplomacy. This approach reflects India’s broader policy of addressing disputes with neighboring countries through negotiation rather than confrontation. India’s position was reaffirmed following the announcement on August 19 that border trade with China through Lipulekh would be resumed, a decision made during the Chinese Foreign Minister’s visit to India, as part of the efforts by both nations to mend ties that had been strained after the Galwan Valley clash.
On the other hand, Nepal, under the leadership of the KP Sharma Oli government, reiterated its stance by highlighting that the official map of Nepal, which was constitutionally endorsed, clearly includes the regions of Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani—territories it considers to lie east of the Mahakali River and therefore integral parts of Nepal. Kathmandu emphasized that it has repeatedly urged India not to undertake any form of construction, trade, or expansion activities in the disputed areas. Furthermore, Nepal claimed that it had already informed China that the territory in question falls under Nepal’s sovereignty, thereby reinforcing its claims at the bilateral and international level.
Concluding its statement, the Nepalese government stressed that while it strongly upholds its territorial claims, it remains committed to maintaining the spirit of close and friendly relations with India. It noted that the resolution of such sensitive border issues must take place through diplomatic channels, supported by historical treaties, agreements, maps, and verified evidence. Nepal reiterated that it seeks a peaceful and amicable settlement, one that respects both historical realities and the longstanding friendship between the two neighboring countries.
