Kathmandu, Nepal – U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Donald Lu, has called on Nepal to disclose the details of its recently concluded Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) implementation agreement with China. During his two-day visit to Nepal from December 8 to 10, 2024, Lu emphasized the need for transparency in international agreements, drawing parallels with the open disclosure of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact between Nepal and the U.S.

Speaking at a press briefing in Kathmandu, Lu stated, "While Nepal has the sovereign right to engage in agreements with its neighbors, any such agreements that could impact relations with other neighboring countries should be reconsidered. Transparency is key, as demonstrated by the public dissemination of all MCC-related documents and investments."

Lu's visit included high-level political engagements with prominent leaders, including Sher Bahadur Deuba, former Prime Minister and leader of the ruling coalition, and Pushpa Kamal Dahal, leader of the main opposition party. The discussions focused on Nepal's ongoing peace process and its final stages, with Lu expressing U.S. support for Nepal's efforts to achieve lasting stability. "Nepal has made remarkable progress in its peace process, and we trust the country will complete this journey through mutual understanding and agreement," Lu remarked.

The U.S. official's call for transparency has reignited debates over Nepal's strategic partnerships with China and the implications of its BRI commitments. Critics argue that undisclosed terms in such agreements could lead to concerns about sovereignty and regional dynamics, while proponents highlight the potential for economic development.

Lu’s visit underscores the growing international focus on Nepal's geopolitical decisions and the balancing act it must perform between its powerful neighbors, China and India, and its long-standing partnership with the United States. His remarks have sparked a wave of reactions, with many awaiting the government’s stance on the disclosure of the BRI agreement.

As Nepal navigates these complex dynamics, the call for transparency could serve as a litmus test for the government’s commitment to accountability and its ability to maintain balanced foreign relations.