British Ambassador to Nepal Keith G. Bloomfield said Wednesday that all counter-terrorism efforts must focus on addressing the root cause of the problem.

Speaking at a talk programme on “Terrorism and Counter Terrorism” jointly organized by the Nepal Council of World Affairs and Nepal Britain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Bloomfield said even if the government of Nepal strikes a permanent peace deal with the Maoists, problems could resurrect if the root cause of the issue is not addressed.

He said there was no legitimate definition of terrorism. The individuals regarded as terrorists by one government could be regarded as freedom fighters by another government, the British envoy said.

He said the Maoists committed atrocities that violated the law of the country. While the government dubbed them as terrorists, the Maoists too have complained about the extra-judicial killings by the government.

Bloomfield said that the only advice he had for Nepal was that it ought to look for all possible help to find a permanent solution to the problem. nepalnews.com am Apr 16