Soviet-Nepalese relations in 1956-1959

Preserving the national identity of a country while interacting with a superpower is a relevant global issue. In this article, the author examines the development of Soviet-Nepalese relations in 1956-1959 in four aspects: conceptual, analytical, educational and economic. The article’s innovative value lies in the introduction of new archival data into academic circulation. Methodologically, the article views Soviet-Nepalese relations as a complex system with several main elements. The 5 principles of peaceful coexistence were recognized as the basis for diplomatic dialogue. Nepal had no territorial or economic disputes with the USSR, and Soviet diplomats saw these relations as part of a large project to create a zone of peace in Asia. The conceptual part manifested itself in speeches by senior officials and signing of communiquеs following official visits. The field of information analysis was represented by profound expert work. The educational direction was based on a normative, legalistic approach, when exceptions were made only in rare cases, and in the event that they did not significantly change the established methods and forms of interaction between the two parties. The economic aspect in the relations between the two countries was of great importance, but subsequently, as a result of its implementation, Soviet specialists could not fully enjoy opportunities to gain a foothold in Kathmandu. The conducted study shows that in the system of diplomatic interaction in 1956–1959, the conceptual and analytical directions were the most successful.