Kathmandu, February 27:

Expressing deep concern over Nepal’s unfolding situation, Japanese ambassador Tsutomu Hiraoka urged all the concerned parties to work towards achieving peace through a consolidated approach. He also urged the government and political parties to iron out their differences.

“What Nepal now needs is for the government, the political parties and citizens to pursue peace through unity. Japan hopes that the government and political parties will reach out to one another in the spirit of reconciliation,” said Hiraoko. He urged the Maoists to halt their “acts of violence,” thereby opting for peace through dialogue. Hiraoka was speaking at a seminar on Nepal-Japan ties held to mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The meet was organised by the Institute of Foreign Affairs.

Foreign minister Rame-sh Nath Pandey said the government is keen on ending the current impasse as soon as possible. Lauding Japan’s continuous economic assistance to Nepal, he hoped that Japan will continue its support. He called on Nepali and Japanese investors to explore opportunities for investment based on the new measures introduced by the Foreign Investment Board.