UN Under Secretary-General arriving

Kathmandu, January 5

United Nations Under Secretary-General for Political Affairs Jeffery D Feltman is arriving in Nepal for a three-day visit on Thursday.

During his visit, he would call on top government officials as well as leaders across the political spectrum.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Tara Prasad Pokhrel confirmed Feltman’s meeting with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and other political leaders. Feltman had also visited Nepal in January 2015.

“The UN official will take stock of the latest political situation in Nepal, mainly following the adoption of new constitution and issues of its implementation,” a diplomatic source informed.

Feltman would be the highest UN official to visit Nepal following the promulgation of new constitution on September 20.

He would also meet Nepali Congress President Sushil Koirala, UCPN-Maoist Chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal, CPN-UML leaders and leaders of agitating United Democratic Madhesi Front, added the source.

He is also expected to discuss the impact of the India’s blockade and its widespread repercussions on the life of Nepali people and economy.

Earlier, the UN had expressed deep concern about continued disruption of supplies through the Nepal-India crossing routes and asserted Nepal’s right to have a hassle-free access up to the sea. The global body had also expressed serious concern about growing humanitarian crisis in Nepal due to the shortages of essentials, including fuel and medicines.