India's role vital in Nepal: US ambassador-designate to Nepal

Kathmandu, June 23 (UNI) Ambassador-designate of the US to Nepal Nancy Powel has said India and China have very important roles to play in the Himalayan kingdom.

''India has had an enormous influence with the various political groups and it will continue to play a very important role,''Ms Powel told the Senate during a hearing.

''China has rejected the idea that these (Maoists) are people that are somehow tied to their former leader and have spoken out in favour of the peace process. I would hope that they would be engaged in promoting that,'' she said.

''Although the Maoists joined the government on April 1, they continue to violate commitments they have made. They have not shown 100 per cent commitment, particularly with the founding of the Young Communist League. Intimidation, extortion and some kidnapping has been continuing,'' she replied to a question.

Earlier, Ms Powel was US ambassador to Pakistan.

The country is at a critical juncture now after nearly a decade of civil war and many years of autocratic rule, she said.

''The United States and the international community need to help Nepal restore and solidify its democracy, and key to this is moving forward with the process of integrating the Maoists into the political process,'' she added.

Peace and democracy in Nepal would directly serve US interests in stability and democracy in South Asia, a statement issued by the US embassy here today quoted Ms Powel as saying.

''If confirmed, I look forward to working with the government of Nepal to implement current plans for a voluntary resettlement programme for at least 60,000 Bhutanese refugees,'' Ms Powel said.

UNI