Nepal Unveils ‘Soft Power’ Strategy in Budget to Boost Global Influence and Economy

The government has introduced a new “soft power” promotion program through the budget for the upcoming fiscal year, aiming to strengthen Nepal’s global image and integrate its cultural and natural assets into the country’s drive towards economic prosperity.

Presenting the budget in the Federal Parliament on Friday, Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle said Nepal would harness its soft power by advancing balanced foreign relations based on mutual benefit, national dignity and sovereign interests.

The program seeks to globalize Nepal’s art, cultural diversity, natural heritage and peaceful identity while enhancing the country’s international credibility and influence through coordinated promotion of diplomacy, tourism, culture and technology.

In Nepal’s context, the Himalayan mountain range, including Mount Everest, Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, along with yoga, meditation, trekking, Nepali hospitality and Nepal’s image as a peaceful nation are regarded as major sources of soft power.

This is the first time such issues have been formally incorporated into the national budget as part of a broader strategy to expand Nepal’s international presence and diplomatic influence.

“Nepal will strengthen its presence in the United Nations and other multilateral and regional forums, while pursuing robust diplomacy for regional cooperation and connectivity,” the budget document states.

Point 58 of the budget further states that the government will intensify the global promotion of Buddha’s birthplace, Mount Everest, the Himalayan region, yoga and meditation practices, Nepal’s cultural diversity and its contribution to international peacekeeping missions.

The government believes the initiative will help position Nepal more strongly on the global stage while also contributing to tourism promotion, international partnerships and long-term economic growth.