KATHMANDU, June 29: Rajendra Bajgain, a Member of Parliament (MP) from the ruling Nepali Congress, has voiced criticism against the government for its voting pattern on Israel, a country with longstanding diplomatic relations, at the United Nations General Assembly.
Nepal and Israel established diplomatic relations on June 1, 1960, during the tenure of the first elected Prime Minister, BP Koirala. Nepal was the first country in South Asia to recognize Israel at that time.
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Expressing concern over Nepal's handling of its relationship with Israel, Bajgain highlighted the inconsistent voting approach adopted by Nepal in the UN General Assembly. He said, “Nepal has voted against Israel in the Security Council continuously from 2012 until 2023, with a neutral stance in 2017.” Bajgain emphasized that Nepal should reevaluate its approach, considering the historical and geographical similarities between Israel and Nepal, as well as the long-standing diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Furthermore, Bajgain called upon the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to take into account the importance of maintaining friendly relationships when making decisions on foreign policy. He cited instances such as the controversial decision not to vote for Germany in 2010 and voting in favor of the UAE in the Arena Convention, where Nepal seemingly disregarded its allies and close friends.
The MP underscored the significance of Israel as a friendly nation that has supported Nepal in various fields, ranging from defense to agriculture. He also noted that while India has adjusted its approach to consider its relations with Israel during the UN General Assembly voting, Nepal's voting record has been viewed unfavorably.
