Significance
His first official visit was to India in mid-February. These visits come at a difficult time for the Kathmandu administration, which is struggling to foster consensus among the various ethnic parties over a new constitution. These internal political rifts are not only looming over domestic security but are also affecting Nepal's ties with its two most powerful neighbours, China and India.
Impacts
Sporadic and small-scale political violence is likely to deter foreign investment, especially in energy projects.
The political chaos will impede post-earthquake reconstruction work, potentially alienating international donors.
While a return to large-scale violence is unlikely, ethnic tensions are spreading, threatening long-term security.