Kathmandu : In a notable diplomatic development in South Asia, US Special Envoy Sergio Gor was reportedly not granted a meeting with Nepal’s Prime Minister Balen Shah during his recent visit to Kathmandu. The incident is being viewed as a reflection of evolving geopolitical dynamics in the region.
According to sources, Sergio Gor arrived in Nepal on a three-day visit along with a six-member delegation. During the visit, the US side had requested a courtesy meeting with Prime Minister Balen Shah. However, the request was not accepted by the Prime Minister’s Office.
Officials from the Prime Minister’s Office stated that PM Balen Shah is currently focused on domestic governance reforms, good governance initiatives, and development priorities. Therefore, he has opted for a selective approach to meetings with foreign dignitaries.
Despite the absence of a meeting with the Prime Minister, the US envoy held discussions with Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Finance Minister, and other senior officials. The talks reportedly focused on bilateral cooperation, investment opportunities, and expansion of trade relations.
Foreign policy experts suggest that this development may go beyond routine protocol matters and could indicate a shift in Nepal’s diplomatic posture. Analysts believe that Nepal is increasingly adopting a more balanced and independent approach in its engagements with global powers.
Notably, a similar situation was observed in the Maldives earlier, where US Special Envoy Sergio Gor was reportedly unable to meet President Mohamed Muizzu. The back-to-back diplomatic setbacks are being seen as a challenge for US outreach efforts in the South Asian region.
Experts further note that smaller South Asian nations are gradually redefining their foreign policy priorities, signaling a possible shift towards a more multipolar and balanced regional order.