A country without defined national interests is like a headless idol as national security is impossible without them. The absence of a national security doctrine, in turn, makes a government directionless and politics and administration become weak and corrupt. Ministries and security bodies like Nepal Army cannot formulate their doctrines when there is no national security policy. Administration sans policy runs as per the whims of certain individuals or groups, as is happening in case of Nepal. In this situation a change in government means a change in national security doctrine.Following the 1990 political changes, many challenges have been added to our national security as the country has failed to define its cut national interests. The emerging extremist thoughts are an outcome of Nepal's unsuccessful attempts to identify national interests.
It will be unwise to have separate foreign policies for India, China and other nations. While delivering speeches, politicians are found talking about equal and balanced treatment of both the neighbors. They must stick to their words. For example, why is it necessary for Nepal's Presidents and Prime Ministers to visit India first after assuming office? Why should we give continuity to the British Indian tradition of making Nepal's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) as Indian Army's honorary COAS and vice versa? Why can't we recognize Chinese military COAS as honorary Nepal Army COAS, too?
Indian, American and British military troops come to Nepal for military exercises. Why cannot we also invite Chinese military personnel? Nepal Army's previous COAS, during his tenure, visited India 12 times. But why didn't he visit China?
Nepal has remained independent since time immemorial. In 1950, the then Rana Prime Minister signed a treaty with India. That treaty is a replica of the Sugauli Treaty. The Sugauli Treaty was imposed on Nepal by the English. The 1950 Treaty is embarrassment for the Nepali people. Why should Nepali politicians respect the 1950 Treaty as the sacred Geeta? It is against Nepal's national interest. With bilateral diplomatic initiation, the treaty must be reviewed. Our diplomatic conduct with the two neighbors should be balanced.
When it comes to safeguarding Nepal's national interest, we should accord priority to the United Nations. We must focus on reaping maximum benefit from the UN national development and at critical times when the country's sovereign is in danger. However, the global body is also under the grip of big and powerful nations. So the government should take the initiative for deploying more Nepali peacekeepers abroad and thus enhancing the nation's image.
Peacekeeping operations of Nepal Army, Nepal Police and Armed Police Force are government responsibilities. The present system lacks government's active participation. The government must be well-informed about Nepali peacekeepers in other countries. The Prime Minister, Defense Minister, Finance Minister and Home Minister must visit the countries where Nepal's peacekeepers are deployed. This will enhance the morale of our peacekeeping forces and enhance the country's image.
Finally, the teachings of King Prithvi Narayan Shah are still valuable. He had clarified various aspects, including internal and external security threats. In foreign affairs, his statements such as 'Nepal is like a yam sandwiched between the two boulders', 'Be careful while maintaining relationship with the South's emperor' and 'Do not get scared of promoting relationship with the North's emperor' are still relevant.
Even during the Panchayat period, there was a red book incorporating Nepal's interests. But today, under democratic dispensation, we have no clearly identified national interest. The army and police forces alone cannot formulate national security policy; it is the government's job.
The author has an MSc in Global Security from Cranfield University, UK
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