KATHMANDU, Jan 27: United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the first amendment in the new constitution of Nepal as an important step in resolving differences on constitutional arrangements.
UN Secretary General's Spokesman Stephane Dujarric said during a regular briefing in New York on Tuesday that the secretary general has urged all parties to exercise maximum flexibility in resolving the remaining issues through dialogue.
"He hopes that current positive developments could help normalize passage of supplies at Nepal's border points and refocus attention to address urgent reconstruction and other needs," said the spokesman. "The Secretary-General reiterates his calls for restraint and non-violence from all sides, and redoubling of efforts at peaceful dialogue and inclusive democratic processes."
The parliament on Saturday amended two important provisions and ensured proportional inclusive representation of various groups in state bodies. The amendment also included a provision that stated the population shall be the major basis while geography the secondary basis for delineation of electoral constituencies.
These amendments were made as demanded by the agitating Madhesi political parties. The disgruntled groups however have termed it incomplete.
The government of India, which had been pushing for the amendment of the constitution, has termed it a positive development toward ending the political stalemate.
Meanwhile, China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying said during a recent press conference in Beijing that the Chinese side follows closely the situation in Nepal and welcomes the efforts made by the Nepali government and relevant parties to resolve differences through dialogues.
“As a friendly neighbor, we sincerely hope that all parties in Nepal can bear in mind the fundamental interests of the nation and people, resolve differences through dialogues and consultations at an early date, restore stability to Nepal as soon as possible, and work in concert to pursue post-disaster rebuilding and long-term development,” said Hua when asked about China's views on the amendment of the new constitution of Nepal.
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