Mustang Border: Exit Permits Boost Nepal-China Ties

In recent years, there have been several discussions and efforts to encourage cross-border trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges in the Mustang region. As a result, exit permits are now being issued to residents of two rural municipalities near the Nepal-China border in the Mustang district. The border crossing at Korala, close to the village of Lomanthang, has seen a surge in trade and tourism activities lately. This has allowed travelers to appreciate the rich cultural heritage and awe-inspiring landscapes of both Nepal and Tibet.

The District Administration Office in Mustang has begun providing exit permits to locals living in Lho-Manthang and Lho-Ghekar rural municipalities, which lie along the border with China. This region is crucial for Nepal's relationship with China as Mustang is a cold desert area with strong cultural ties to Tibet and an intriguing Cold War history.

China has offered aid to two village municipalities close to the border in Mustang, including a 70 KW solar power plant in 2015 and an excavator in 2022. Opening a checkpoint at the border will help Mustang residents access various materials like daily necessities, construction supplies, clothing, and more at reasonable rates.

Chief District Officer Janak Raj Panta revealed that District Administration Office employees stationed at the Area Administration Office in Lho-Manthang have started collecting permit applications from residents based on local government recommendations. Panta stated, "We began gathering applications on Tuesday. I'm personally preparing to visit Lho-Manthang to sign the exit permits since there aren't any other officer-level staff at either Area or District administration offices." During Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal's recent official visit to China, China expressed its willingness to open up 14 trade transit points along the Nepal-China border, including the Korala transit.

This exit permit distribution coincides with preparations to operate the Korala transit, allowing permit-holding citizens to travel to China and back freely. CDO Panta mentioned that though the transit point's opening has been decided, the exact date has yet to be determined. "We plan to open the transit point as soon as possible by meeting Chinese security officials and coordinating with the Ministry of Home Affairs," he added. The Home Ministry forwarded China's Embassy diplomatic note from September 20th to the Mustang District Administration, urging them to prepare for the border transit point's opening.

The Mustang region along the Nepal-China border holds significant historical and strategic importance for both countries. The district of Mustang in northern Nepal shares its northern border with China's Tibet Autonomous Region. This particular border stretches for around 84 kilometers and is known for its breathtaking landscapes, such as deep valleys, high mountain passes, and the Kali Gandaki River flowing through the valley.

Historically, Mustang has been a vital corridor for trade and cultural exchange between Nepal and Tibet. This region played a crucial role in the trans-Himalayan salt trade, enabling Mustang residents to exchange Tibetan salt for grain from Nepal's lowlands. This trade route fostered an exchange of goods, culture, and traditions between these two neighboring regions.