In a dramatic and bold assertion of sovereignty, Nepal has decisively shut down plans for a visit by the Chinese Communist Party-backed Panchen Lama, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, citing its policy of neutrality on religious matters. This move has sparked intense diplomatic ripples, showcasing Kathmandu’s resolve to maintain its geopolitical balance amid mounting pressures from its northern neighbor.
The controversy began last week when diplomatic circles in Kathmandu were abuzz with rumors of the Panchen Lama’s imminent visit. The Lama, projected by Beijing as the successor to the Dalai Lama—a claim staunchly rejected by Tibetan exiles and Western nations—was reportedly planning to attend events in Lumbini and Kathmandu under the banner of the 2024 Nanhai Buddhism Round Table.
“He has been trying to visit Nepal for the past ten years and especially wanted to come here on Buddha Jayanti,” revealed Lyarkal Lama, vice-chairman of the Lumbini Development Trust, on December 11. However, he added, “Such a high-profile visit could add to Nepal’s geopolitical challenges. It’s a matter that must be settled at the highest level of government.”
As soon as information leaked, Nepal’s Home and Tourism ministries launched an extensive verification process. Officials meticulously reviewed passenger lists of chartered Air China flights from Chengdu to Lumbini, suspecting the Panchen Lama might travel under an alias or disguised among 227 Chinese monks and officials.
“We could not spot his name anywhere, but he might have multiple passports with multiple identities,” admitted a Home Ministry official involved in the checks. By December 11, it was clear no approvals had been sought for a direct flight carrying the Panchen Lama, and a pre-approved flight from Beijing was mysteriously canceled.
Diplomatic Maneuvering
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs escalated the matter by sending a diplomatic note to the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. It sought clarification on the rumored visit and firmly communicated Nepal’s stance against permitting the Panchen Lama entry.
“We have not allowed the Dalai Lama to come to Nepal,” explained a senior security official. “By the same token, we can’t allow a similar China-backed religious figure to visit. Our policy on such matters is consistent.”
Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba, currently on a European tour, reiterated the government’s position. “As soon as we received the information, we inquired with the Chinese Embassy, which denied the visit. We will not allow him to come,” Deuba confirmed on December 11.
Geopolitical Implications
Nepal’s refusal to host the Panchen Lama underscores the delicate tightrope Kathmandu walks between its giant neighbors, India and China. The Lama’s visit, had it occurred, could have been perceived as a symbolic endorsement of Beijing’s contested religious and political narrative.
“Allowing the Panchen Lama’s visit could have deepened geopolitical tensions and jeopardized Nepal’s policy of non-alignment,” remarked a senior analyst. “This decision sends a clear message that Nepal values its sovereignty and neutrality.”
Insiders revealed that initial approval for the visit may have come from Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli during his December 2 trip to China. However, this claim was later denied. “The prime minister was unaware of any such plans,” stated Bishnu Rimal, Oli’s chief political advisor.
The Lumbini Development Trust flagged the visit to the Foreign Ministry, further intensifying scrutiny. “We raised concerns about the potential implications of hosting the Panchen Lama, and the government acted swiftly,” a Trust representative confirmed.
The 2024 Nanhai Buddhism Round Table—scheduled to begin on December 13—will proceed, featuring Buddhist delegates from 20 countries. A 10-member delegation led by Yin Shun, vice president of the Buddhist Association of China, has already arrived in Kathmandu to prepare for the event.
While the Round Table promises to be a significant gathering, the Lama’s absence underscores Nepal’s firm stance on maintaining neutrality amid competing global powers.
