China,Nepal agreement widens scope of relations

Except for the South Asia Association of Regional Cooperation SAARC,and the Nepal treaty of Peace and Friendship with India 1950,Nepals understanding with any country has so far been subject specific,and not sweeping in its scope and nature.

One of the major issues of contention in the Peace and Friendship treaty with India has been that both countries have to inform each other in case there is a threat from any other country. But the latest understanding between China and Nepal goes further. Both the countries have committed to form a joint strategy on major international and regional issues. Officials,who do not want to be quoted at this stage,do not rule out that it may have been principally aimed at moving Nepal closer to the North,and away from India.

Nepal and China,have for long been talking about the need to have a new treaty of Peace and Friendship,as well as extradition treaties,and of late China has made it clear that provisions of these treaties should be at par with ones Nepal has with India. The joint communique was released Saturday after Premier Wen Jiabo wound up his Kathmandu visit.

That China has stepped up its interest and assistance in Nepals security became evident after China granted 200 million to the Nepal army last year,pledged 100 million for the Armed Police Force APF and 40 million for the Nepal Police during Wens visit.

Wen met the Prime Minister and the chiefs of the four major parties during his trip. He said China was keen to see Nepals sovereignty strengthened,but it was something Nepalis must do themselves.