NIICE to Lead Global Conversation on Balen Shah’s Governance

Kathmandu

The Nepal Institute for International Cooperation and Engagement (NIICE) is set to host a webinar titled “How The World Sees Balen’s Leadership in Nepal” on 29 April 2026 (Wednesday) (14:00–16:30 hrs). This important discussion will bring together 26 diplomats, policymakers, scholars and experts from 25 countries, including India, the USA, Japan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China and Nepal, who will share global perspectives on the leadership of Balen Shah and the evolving political landscape of Nepal.

Prime Minister Balen Shah is leading a government that commands nearly a two-thirds majority in the lower house of the Federal Parliament of Nepal. This government was elected following the March elections, which were driven by the Gen Z movement in Nepal. In light of this political scenario, the discussion aims to highlight how Nepal’s current government is being perceived across the world and to foster constructive dialogue on its broader implications.

Prominent speakers of the webinar include Pankaj Saran, former Indian Ambassador and former Deputy National Security Advisor; Manjeev Singh Puri, former Indian Ambassador to Nepal; Dr Zhang Jiadong from Fudan University, China; Rob York from Pacific Forum, USA; Cynthia Petrigh, former United Nations Peace Advisor to Nepal; and Joëlle Hivonnet, former Deputy Head of the Delegation of the European Union to Nepal.

NIICE has continued to engage in global engagement by being based in Nepal through its various flagship initiatives, like the Indo-Pacific Future Forum, which fosters a deeper understanding of strategic issues impacting the Indo-Pacific region by bringing together experts from around the world. In addition, NIICE has successfully organised major global forums such as the NIICE Global Conclave, NIICE International Studies Convention, and the NIICE International Women Summit, engaging hundreds of experts from across the world. NIICE is reportedly the only think-tank in Nepal which actively works on Nuclear Non-Proliferation issues. Currently, NIICE is celebrating its 10th year anniversary.