EU hails peace progress

HIMALAYAN NEWS SERVICE

KATHMANDU: Nepal-based EU missions have welcomed the recent progress in the peace process and the pledge to deliver the constitution on time.

In a statement, the Delegation of the European Union to Nepal said the new momentum in the high-level negotiations on system of governance and a new national government structure for Nepal is encouraging.

The European Union expressed hope that the momentum will contribute to the completion of a new democratic and inclusive constitution responding to the aspirations of the Nepali people, while containing adequate checks and balances, and strengthening the rule of law.

“We also urge all political parties to ensure adequate public consultation processes on the constitution,” reads the European Union statement.

The missions also underscored that the fight against impunity and adequate investigation and prosecution of conflict-era human rights violations should not be sacrificed to the need of expedient solutions in other areas.

“We strongly believe that transitional justice mechanisms, which are genuinely independent, seek both truth and reconciliation, and which give victims the fullest opportunity for redress, are essential to consolidate the peace process.”

Issuing a separate press statement in Paris, the Foreign Ministry of France lauded the progress achieved, notably with respect to the issue relating to the integration of former Maoist combatants.

“The completion of all components of the process (reintegration, constitution, and fight against impunity) is essential in order to consolidate the rule of law and democracy, which will contribute to national reconciliation and sustainable development of the country,” reads the French ministry’s statement.