Kathmandu, May 22:

Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala today asked visiting United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Antonio Guterres, to “convince” Bhutan on repatriating refugees during his visit to the country.

Koirala, however, did not rule out third country resettlement of the refugees. “We appreciate the initiatives of countries which have agreed to resettle the Bhutanese refugees,” Dr Suresh Chalise, foreign affairs advisor to Koirala, quoted the Prime Minister as telling Guterres during their meeting in Baluwatar this afternoon.

Guterres, who is visiting the Goldhap refugee camp in Jhapa tomorrow, is going to Thimphu where he will discuss the refugee issue with Bhutanese ministers. Guterres termed Nepal’s initiatives to resolve the refugee problem as “constructive”.

He said all countries in this region, especially India, have a role to play in finding a durable solution to the protracted crisis. “India is a very relevant partner. India’s positive attitude in finding out a solution could be helpful,” Guterres told reporters after today’s meeting.

Guterres, who arrived here today, also said the choice between resettlement or repatriation has to be left to the refugees. “We only want a permanent solution,” he said, adding that local integration is not a “general” solution.

Dr Chalise said Koirala, citing news reports that appeared in the international media, was also equally concerned that a sizable chunk of the Nepali speaking community of Bhutan were barred from taking part in the mock polls that was conducted in the country recently.

Koirala also told Guterres that even though the issue was a bilateral one, Nepal “expected” India’s cooperation.

Guterres also met Foreign Minister Sahana Pradhan at Shital Niwas today. Pradhan told reporters that she asked Guterres to “convince and impress” Bhutan on repatriation. “Bhutan should not, however, think that resettlement of the refugees would permanently solve the crisis,” she said.