A delegation of EU ambassadors(Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, UK and EU delegation) to Nepal plus the ambassadors of Switzerland and Norway called on Jhala Nath Khanal, Chairman of CPN(UML) at the Party office in Balkhu.

The Chairman while welcoming the delegation appreciated their continued support to the development and peace process of Nepal. He said that current situation of the country is still full of challenges, but leaders are working seriously to carve out an agreement.

The delegation members expressed their concern at the present impasse in the country which is affecting the economic development process. While EU has no opinion on how the political issues are to be solved, as friends of Nepal, they are concerned at the stalemate impacting on budgetary process and the overall growth of the country. They called upon CPN(UML) to play an independent role in mediating among the major parties. The EU delegation hoped that the local election will also be held soon which will be a major step towards meeting donors’ expectations and people’s demands for more accountable, transparent, and effective delivery of services at the local level.

Khanal informed that the issue of local election, although it may have to be held in a staggered fashion for practical purpose, is already a part of current negotiations and he very much hoped to end the stalemate at the earliest. He also hoped that once an agreement is reached between 4 major parties, other political forces will also join in the constructive process of political reconciliation. He thanked the delegation for their constructive and friendly suggestions. He would like to see the continued and enhanced cooperation of the EU countries plus Switzerland and Norway in the development efforts of the country.