KATHMANDU: British Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Hugo Swire, expressed his serious concerns about the impact of the border blockages on the supply and distribution of humanitarian assistance in Nepal while meeting Nepal’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kamal Thapa, last week, the British Embassy in Kathmandu said.

During their meeting on November 19, Minister Swire urged the Government of Nepal to provide the leadership required for the reconstruction process and Deputy Prime Minister Thapa of the UK’s continued support and friendship for the people of Nepal.

Referring to the ongoing crisis in the Tarai region bordering India and the blockade at the Nepal-India border that has obstructed the supplies of daily commodities and fuel, the Embassay warned of a second humanitarian crisis if the situation was not resolved shortly as winter was approaching.

The Embassy further said the UK was clear the political situation in Nepal is ultimately for Nepal to resolve.

"The UK hopes peaceful dialogue and compromise will continue, to find an agreed position that meets the needs of all Nepali citizens."