KATHMANDU, JUNE 17

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr Narayan Khadka, has ruled out the possibility of Nepal's involvement in the State Partnership Program of the United States of America.

In his address to a meeting of the International Relations Committee, House of Representatives, today, the Foreign Minister said the Prime Minister had already declared that the SPP was not in the interest and welfare of Nepal and it was not acceptable in the changing context.

In his response to lawmakers' queries, he said, 'The matter is already a closed chapter with the Nepali Army (NA) clarifying it. Thus, it is not necessary to bring the topic in a discourse again.'

it is not possible for Nepal to be part of any military alliance as it is highly aware of its geographical position and the sensitiveness of its neighbouring country, Khadka reiterated.

Responding to lawmakers' query about Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba's visit planned for the USA, he said the final decision in regard with it is still awaited.

'The head of the government's foreign visit is customary,' he added.