Kathmandu, December 3:

With the signing of the comprehensive Peace Accord on November 21, 2006, the three major national trade unions of the nation have expressed commitment to the peace-building process by joining hands with the Maoist affiliated trade union federation, All Nepal Trade Union Federation (ANTUF).

The comprehensive discussions held between the leaders of General Federation of Nepalese Trade Unions, Democratic Confederation of Nepalese Trade Unions, and National Trade Union Congress and ANTUF last Friday led to the signing of the historic Declaration facilitated by ILO Nepal Director, Shengjie Li, an ILO release issued today stated.

The signing of the Declaration by the four Trade Unions commits them to work together, promoting a joint union approach to help re-build the nation through the development of employment generation programmes.

The Declaration, signed in Lahan, highlights the trade union movement’s commitment to promote the ILO’s Decent Work Agenda and is hoped to facilitate the ratification of ILO Convention No. 87 on Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to organise — a longstanding wish of the trade union movement guaranteeing trade union independence.

“The role of the ILO in this process of reconciliation and partnership affirms ILO’s continued support for equitable development and sustainable peace in Nepal, based on the principles of decent work and social justice for all,” the release added.