Nepal parties should work together: Ban Ki-moon

Kathmandu, Oct 30: Ban Ki-moon, the United Nations Secretary-General in his report released a few days ahead of his first visit to Nepal, commended the political parties of Nepal for their commitment to consolidating democracy.

"In common with other members of the international community, I have repeatedly stressed the importance of sustaining the cooperation among political parties on which the peace process was founded and which has brought it so far," report said. In the report, the Secretary General pledge the Nepali Congress should help to draft a new Constitution, despite its decision to stay out of the Maoist-led coalition government.

He also praised the commitments made by Nepal Prime Minister Prachanda concerning multi-party democracy and human rights.

The report lamented the fact that the 'understandable' delays in forming the government have not led to the hoped-for progress to allow the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the country to wind down by its mandate's conclusion next January.

The report also urged the international community to continue its support for the country to ensure that it successfully completes its peace process. He will visit Nepal on Oct 31.

During his visit, he will meet with Nepal President Dr Ram Baran Yadav, Prime Minister Prachanda, ministers and senior political leaders.

On Saturday, Nov 1, he is also expected to visit Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha.

He will also address a press meet on Saturday before flying to Dhaka, Bangladesh, Kantipur reported.

ANI