In Nepal, China shows desperation rather than confidence in competing with India

News Snapshot:

In a recent speech in the Nepalese capital of Kathmandu, Chen Song, the Chinese Ambassador, told the Nepalese people that they were unfortunate to “have a neighbor like India.” Chen warned Nepal of the dangers of trading with India, downplaying the importance of India-Nepal relations and instead encouraging a closer relationship with China. Geographically, culturally, politically and economically close to India, Nepal has become the focus of Chinese attempts to challenge India in its own neighborhood. China’s leader Xi Jinping also raised eyebrows by deciding to skip the G20 summit, in what was widely seen as a snub to his...