Kathmandu, May 3 - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nepal has formally expressed concern over recent reports suggesting that the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage route may be operated via Lipulekh, a territory claimed by Nepal, connecting India and China.
In an official statement issued from Singha Durbar, the ministry clarified that the Government of Nepal remains firm and unequivocal in its position that Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani-areas located east of the Mahakali River-are integral parts of Nepal. This stance is rooted in the historic Sugauli Treaty of 1816, which defines Nepal’s western boundary.
The ministry stated that Nepal has communicated its concerns and position to both India and China through diplomatic channels, emphasizing that any activity in the disputed region-including infrastructure development, border trade, or pilgrimage routes-should not proceed without mutual understanding and respect for Nepal’s territorial integrity.
Nepal has consistently urged India in the past to refrain from undertaking road construction or expansion and other activities in the area. At the same time, the government confirmed that it has officially informed China of Nepal’s claim over Lipulekh, reinforcing its diplomatic engagement on the matter.
Despite the ongoing concerns, Nepal reiterated its commitment to resolving boundary disputes through peaceful and diplomatic means. The government stressed that solutions should be based on historical agreements, factual evidence, maps, and mutual respect, in line with the long-standing friendly relations between Nepal and India.
The issue of Lipulekh, along with Limpiyadhura and Kalapani, has remained a sensitive geopolitical matter, drawing periodic attention due to its strategic importance and implications for regional connectivity and sovereignty.
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