Implement political agreements to meet people’s aspirations: Danish Minister

September 22, 2006
3 MIN READ
A
A+
A-

Visiting Danish Minister for Development Cooperation, Ulla Tornaes has said that it is essential to keep the momentum in the peace process and to fully implement the political agreements to meet people’s aspirations for peace.

In a statement issued at the end of her four-day long visit to Nepal, to discuss how Denmark may best assist Nepal in the challenging period ahead, she also expressed readiness of the Denmark to fully support the people of Nepal in their endeavours.

On the issue of ongoing peace process, the Danish Minister said, “The peace process must be firmly driven, controlled and owned by the Nepalese people. It is the responsibility of the parties to forge peace which is essential for further development of Nepal.”

“Denmark believes that the peace process can benefit from support from external and impartial partners, fulfilling well-defined and functional roles, and strongly welcomed the Governments’ and Maoists’ request to the UN for assistance,” She added.

Stating that peace and development must go hand in hand, She said, “Denmark finds that it is important that the ceasefire is not only confined to a cessation of armed hostilities but is also linked to opening up and securing the civic space, allowing political, social, commercial, economic and developmental activities to be strengthened.”

She also underscored the continued need to work to improve the human rights situation.

She also pointed to the need to ensure practical monitoring and dispute resolution mechanisms – at both national and local levels for the smooth running of the peace talks. “As peace negotiations progress at the national level, it is crucial that consultation, coordination and dialogue mechanisms are established at the local level to ensure that basic services can reach the Nepalese people. Demilitarisation of the countryside is much more than decommissioning or disarmament – it must include reconciliation and building a future together,” she added.

The Danish Minister for Development Cooperation expressed that Denmark stands firm in its support for peace, democracy, human rights and development and will continue to do so.

She also assured that if the peace process continues the Government of Denmark will provide new funds in support of the peace process as well as for the continuation of the rural energy programme.

“Denmark is committed to continuing its comprehensive engagement in the education sector, and in the areas of human rights and good governance,” She added.

Danish Minister for Development Cooperation held meetings with the Prime Minister, Speaker of the House of Representatives, other representatives from the Government of Nepal, civil society, political parties and the international community during his stay in Nepal.