Himal Press 
File Photo
KATHMANDU: Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) Balendra Shah has canceled his planned visit to China to protest the northern neighbor’s new map that includes Nepal’s old map.
In a message posted on his Facebook page on Thursday, Balen expressed his dissatisfaction with China’s decision to portray Nepali territory as part of India on its new map. “This is a disrespect to Nepali sentiment. I, therefore, have decided to cancel my five-day China visit on moral grounds,” he added.
China’s new map, published by its Ministry of Natural Resources on August 21, has used Nepal’s old map. Nepal integrated areas like Kalapani, Lipulek, and Limpiyadhura, which were encroached upon by India, in the new map published on June 13, 2020. It even made amendments to the constitution to include this new map.
China had earlier supported India’s claim over Kalapani, Lipulek, and Limpiyadhura regions. However, the Sushil Koirala-led government protested the Chinese stance and sent a diplomatic note to China. China later responded by claiming ignorance about the new map.
China has also unsettled India by including its Arunachal State and the disputed Aksai Chin plateau in its new map. China’s map has also drawn objections from other nations.
Malaysia and the Philippines have also opposed the new map. Malaysia has accused Beijing of making unilateral claims on its maritime area.
Likewise, the Philippines said the latest attempt to legitimize China’s purported sovereignty and jurisdiction over the Philippines features and maritime zones has no basis under international law.
Nepal has yet to officially respond to China’s new map.
