Pokhara, February 2

CPN-UML General Secretary Ishwor Pokhrel today said the new government would work to improve relations with two neighbouring countries.

Speaking at a programme in Pokhara, Pokhrel said next government would deal with both the neighbouring countries keeping national interests at the centre. “Winners used to visit India after winning polls in the past, but now India’s External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj visited Nepal before formation of the new government,” Pokhrel stated.

Pokhrel said that it was their responsibility to welcome India’s foreign minister as guest. “Sushma Swaraj came at the invitation of our chairman KP Sharma Oli. So, it is useless to make a fuss over her visit,” Pokhrel added.

Pokhrel clarified that his party had sought transit rights with China as well. “We can change everything. But, we cannot change our neighbours. Thus, we shall maintain cordial and friendly ties with them,” he said.

Pokhrel said the new government would be formed under his party’s leadership shortly. On constitution amendment, Pokhrel stated that his party was ever ready to hold discussion with Madhesi parties on the issue. “The door is open. We want them to come up with their agendas for discussion,” Pokhrel held.

Pokhrel noted that no force could foil his party’s unification with the CPN-Maoist Centre.