KATHMANDU: Nepal has once again underscored the need for creating a conducive regional environment for the SAARC Summit and said all member states should ensure that their respective territories are not used by terrorists for cross-border terrorism.

Issuing a statement on Sunday after Pakistan informed Nepal who is the current Chair of SAARC about the postponement of 19th SAARC Summit, Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed regret over it and said, "Nepal strongly believes that an environment of peace and stability  essential regional cooperation." 

"To achieve peace and stability in the region, SAARC members states must, among others, ensure that their respective territories are not used by terrorists for cross border terrorism," the statement read.

"Nepal unequivocally condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and expresses its solidarity in the global fight against terrorism. Nepal has always condemned all acts of terrorism in our region."

Pakistan was scheduled to host the 19th regional gala in November.

In the wake of the September 18 terrorist attack on an Indian army base in Uri of Indian Kashmir, India accused Pakistan of its involvement in the incident and promoting cross-border terrorism. With India and other countries announcing that they would not take part in it, Pakistan was forced to postpone the SAARC Summit.

In the statement, MoFA mentioned that Nepal has already condemned the terrorist attack on Indian army base in Uri also.

What is more, MoFA statement expressed Nepal's readiness to initiate necessary consultation on successfully holding the Summit with the participation of all members states.

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