India says committed to working for democratic, stable Nepal

Shirish B Pradhan

Kathmandu, Jan 18 (PTI) Amid a deadlock over governmentformation here, India today said it is committed to workingwith Nepalese political leaders for a democratic, stable andpeaceful Nepal, which is being run by a caretakeradministration for over six months.

This was stated by Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao, whoarrived here today on a three-day visit during which she isexpected to discuss the political situation in Nepal.

Rao, the first high-ranking Indian official to visitKathmandu this year, will call on President Ram Baran Yadav,caretaker Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal and ConstituentAssembly Speaker Subhash Nemwang later today. Tomorrow, shewill hold talks with top political leaders, includingopposition Maoist chief Prachanda.

On Thursday, the Foreign Secretary will meet DeputyPremier and Foreign Minister Sujata Koirala.

During her meetings, she will discuss the entire gamut ofbilateral relations and issues of mutual interest forexpanding and strengthening ties between the two sides, Raosaid on her arrival at the airport here.

"India is committed to working with political leadershere for a democratic, stable, peaceful and prosperous Nepal,"she said.

Her visit here came days after President Yadav askedNepalese political parties to reach a consensus on forming anational government before January 21.

It also followed the UN Mission in Nepal''s (UNMIN) exitfrom this country''s peace process on the midnight of January15.