KATHMANDU, Oct 15: Nepal can move beyond its traditional role as a buffer or bridge between regional powers and emerge as a strategic broker through diplomacy, stronger institutions and
The observation was made by Professor Amitabh Mattoo during Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (AIDIA)'s second Centre for Asian Futures lecture series in Lalitpur on Wednesday. The lecture, titled Asian Futures: India's Strategic Vision, China's Rise and the Future of the Asian Order, explored Asia's shifting power dynamics and the strategic choices shaping the region.
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Addressing the lecture series organized by the AIDIA, Prof. Mattoo discussed China's rise, India's pursuit of strategic autonomy, evolving India-China relations and the influence of regional and global powers. Moving beyond the conventional narrative of the “Asian Century,” he highlighted that Asia's future would be shaped by multiple actors, competing interests and strategic choices rather than a single predetermined path.
The discussion also highlighted the importance of strategic diversification and institutional strength for smaller states such as Nepal to exercise greater agency amid major-power competition.
Ambassador Dr Durga Bahadur Subedi, executive vice-chairman of AIDIA and principal of the Master in International Affairs, Economy and Diplomacy (MIAED), said the institute's Centre for Asian Futures aims to nurture strategic thinkers who can help shape Asia's evolving regional order, including Nepal's role in it.
Organised for the inaugural MIAED cohort, the lecture connected academic perspectives with contemporary challenges in international affairs. The programme is offered by AIDIA in academic partnership with Kathmandu University, the press release said.