Kathmandu, April 4

Various intellectuals and foreign affairs experts have noted that the country’s nationality and independence could be protected by promoting self-reliance.

At a programme organised here today, the speakers said the country was moving towards total dependence when the leaders of majority of political parties of Nepal were not accountable and sensitive to people and country.

Foreign affairs expert Hiranya Lal Shrestha said the agreement signed with China during Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s recent visit was positive and underscored the need to drive the country to self-sufficiency by unleashing potential mines in the country. “It is the best option to safeguard independence”, he added.

Border expert Buddhi Narayan Shrestha accused India of issuing a joint statement taking EU into confidence in response to Nepal-China proximity.