Issuing a joint statement, the heads of missions said, “We urge all political parties to rededicate themselves to delivering the commitments they made to the people of Nepal.” [break]
The heads of missions include envoys of Australia, Canada, Denmark, European Union, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Republic of Korea, Switzerland and UK. Welcoming the progress that Nepal has made toward permanent and sustainable peace, the heads of missions further said, “Of particular concern is the lack of progress on the integration and rehabilitation of former Maoist combatants, and determining the structure of the Nepal Army.
These remain a central element of the CPA, and one that it has never been more urgent to address as UNMIN prepares to leave on 15 January.”
They have also drawn the attention of the parties over the delay in drafting the new constitution.
“We note that the work of the Constituent Assembly is behind schedule and that, despite recent progress, there is no agreement on the future structure and governance of Nepal. With just six months to go, time is running out to produce a first draft of the constitution that meets Nepalis´ aspirations for a more prosperous, equitable, democratic Nepal,” they said in the statement.
They said they are also equally concerned over non-implementation of the parties´ commitment to address conflict-time impunity. “Human rights mechanisms, such as the Disappearances Commission, are still not in place, and impunity persists. Political parties should renounce violence and work together for a lasting peace in respect of the rule of law.”
Meanwhile, UNMIN Chief Karin Landgren said that high-level talks that began at Hattiban are a step in a positive direction toward concluding the peace process.
“…UNMIN hopes that the parties are preparing to take the necessary decisions that will enable our own smooth departure in January,” she said.
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