Kathmandu: Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal has sought to clarify his controversial reference to “old baggage,” saying the phrase should be understood in its proper diplomatic and political context and was not intended to question Nepal’s national heritage, sovereignty or historical positions.
Addressing the House of Representatives on Tuesday, Khanal said the government’s foreign policy remains firmly focused on Nepal’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, national security and long-term national interests.
He said Nepal continues to give high priority to its relations with neighbouring and friendly countries, particularly India and China. Khanal also informed Parliament that he had recently undertaken official visits to both countries—India from 5–7 June 2026 and China from 14–17 June 2026—aimed at further strengthening bilateral relations.
What Did Khanal Mean by ‘Old Baggage’?
Clarifying his remarks made during his official visit to India, Khanal said the term “baggage” carried a negative connotation and referred to past political obstacles and burdens, rather than Nepal’s historical legacy.
He said his comments were made in the context of moving away from internal political polarisation and the narrow politicisation of foreign policy and diplomacy.
According to Khanal, interpreting the “old baggage” remark as a rejection of the state’s historical inheritance or the continuity of the state and government would be an exaggerated interpretation.
He explained that the “old baggage” primarily referred to the past practice of using relations with neighbouring countries as a tool for domestic political gain or loss.
Nepal’s Sovereignty and Map Remain Unchanged
Khanal stressed that his remarks were not directed at Nepal’s history, national heritage, sovereignty, territorial integrity or the protection of historical documents.
He specifically reaffirmed that Nepal’s political map incorporating Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura, along with the constitutional amendment endorsing the map, represents a unanimous decision of Nepal’s Parliament and a shared national commitment of the Nepali people.
The Foreign Minister said the government wants to move Nepal’s relations with neighbouring and friendly nations forward based on mutual equality, respect, trust and economic partnership, without being trapped by prejudice, narrow political interests or unnecessary mistrust.
