Kathmandu, March 15:

Nepal’s foreign policy had never before deteriorated to such a low level than now, a former envoy to China said today on the eve of a visit of the Chinese State Councillor, Tang Jiaxuan, from tomorrow.

Saying that western diplomats had boycotted a reception given by the government on Democracy Day, former ambassador to China Rajeshwor Ach-arya said: “Nepal’s foreign policy had never before deteriorated to such a level that the western diplomats would boycott government’s reception.”

Acharya added, “It is pathetic that foreigners are pressing and telling us what to do and what not to.” Saying that the government has failed to maintain a consistent foreign policy, Acharya said, “If China is going to give duty-free access to Nepali products in its market, it is not because of the current government’s efforts. In fact it’s being done as per the foreign business policy of China. China is giving similar facility to many of its neighbours including Myanmar, Laos and other least development countries,” he said.

Recalling his ambassadorship, he added: “It is difficult task to arrange hi-gh-level official’s visit. But look at the frequency of such visits from Chinese officials in the recent past. It shows how concerned China is about Nepal.”

Acharya linked Chinese concern about Nepal with the the security of Tibet.

Although he admitted that China has adopted a “consistent” foreign policy, he said China’s foreign policy is however is changing in the context of the new world order. He said the foreigners giving so many suggestions to Nepalis indicates that the country is heading towards failure.

“Like the westerners, China is analysing Nepali politics and conflict seriously and high-level Chinese official’s visit cannot be a regular affair,” he said.

Yuba Raj Singh Pradhan, also a former envoy to China, said China would not make any controversial remark on Nepal’s internal affairs during the State Councillor’s visit. “China has a concrete policy of non-interference in the internal affairs of friendly countries,” he said.