KATHMANDU — The United Nations, India, China and a coalition of Western governments have appealed for restraint and dialogue after days of violent protests shook Nepal, underscoring the depth of international concern over the country’s political crisis.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres voiced sorrow at the loss of life, urged an impartial investigation into the killings and pressed the government to safeguard human rights while ensuring demonstrations remain peaceful.
India said it is “closely monitoring” developments, mourning the deaths and stressing that Nepal’s internal disputes “must be addressed peacefully through dialogue.” New Delhi also advised Indian nationals in Nepal to exercise caution.
Beijing, describing Nepal as a “close friend and neighbor,” expressed confidence that the Himalayan nation would resolve its domestic challenges independently and restore stability soon.
The United States and the European Union joined Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan and South Korea in a joint statement condemning violence, extending condolences to victims’ families and urging maximum restraint and the protection of citizens’ rights. The EU went further, explicitly calling for an independent inquiry into the protest-related deaths.
Diplomats said the coordinated messages reflected a rare convergence among Nepal’s key partners — from its two powerful neighbors to Western allies — aimed at nudging the government and protesters toward a negotiated settlement and preventing further escalation.
