Kathmandu, October 31:

Minister for Foreign Affairs Ramesh Nath Pandey today said a double standard approach while dealing with terrorism must be stopped for elimination of terror in the world.

According to him, this view is shared by Russia as well. Pandey was addressing media persons on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport from a tour of Russia and Pakistan. Claiming that his visit was a success, he said new areas of cooperation have been identified.

“Reinforcing traditionally friendly and close ties with these countries with new and strategically vital areas of cooperation serves to further our paramount national interest,” Pandey said.

He said Russia has a deep understanding of the current situation in Nepal and has reaffirmed support for Nepal’s fight against terrorism and measures aimed at ending the internal strife. “Russia shares with Nepal the firm view that double standard and selective approach to terrorism must be stopped,” he said.

Referring to his meeting with the Chairman of the Committee on International Link of the Russian parliament(DUMA), Konstantin I Kosa-chev, Pandey said the DUMA will give due attention to developing a strategic planning for the next three years in Nepal.

On his visit to Pakistan, Pandey said Islamabad wants to see a sovereign, peaceful, stable and secure Nepal. “Pakistan has offered help in fighting terrorism and promoting economic development.”

He further said the two countries have underscored the need for enhancing consultations at the political level to give a fresh impetus to bilateral ties.

He said Pakistan has agreed to establish Nepal’s honorary consulate general’s office in Lahore to enhance bilateral trade.

Pandey claimed Pakistan and Russia have appreciated the King’s takeover on February 1 and that they have expressed support to it.