Stating that conclusion of the peace process and constitution drafting are the topmost political priorities of the present coalition, the prime minister stressed that the proposed categorization of ex-Maoist combatants could be started after reaching a tentative agreement on the modality of integration and rehabilitation, number of combatants to be integrated and negotiating the remaining contentious issues simultaneously. [break]
“But it is a tragedy that the establishment parties of the past [Nepali Congress and CPN-UML] have been presenting themselves in a rigid and irresponsible manner at a time when the former rebel side [UCPN -M] has become very flexible and responsible,” the prime minister told parliament in his written address.
Calling parties for consensus on issues of the peace process and constitution drafting, the prime minister also hoped that the political parties would give up their rigidity and lend support to the government in advancing the peace process and constitution drafting. He also urged the Constituent Assembly to work day and night to draft the new constitution.
In his seven-page written address, the prime minister, who is also a former finance minister with a record of good performance, also said that his government would give high priority to economic development.
Stating that the government would work toward achieving double-digit economic growth, the prime minister said that an investment board would be formed and preparations would be made to organize an investment convention in 2012.
He further told parliament that the government has planned to establish a mechanism to run the nation-prioritized projects in an integrated way so that investment can be increased extensively in mega infrastructure development, tourism and service and manufacturing industries.
The prime minister also urged the trade unions to put forward their demands in a restrained and democratic way as the country´s industrial sector has suffered a lot due to frequent strikes and bandas.
“I appeal to all to resolve disputes between management and laborers through talks and consensus,” the prime minister said.
On foreign policy, the prime minister said that the government would develop Nepal as a “friendship” bridge between India and China instead of maintaining Nepal´s traditional status as a “buffer” state between the two giant neighbors.
Prime Minister Bhattarai said the government has adopted “zero-tolerance” policy on corruption and has given high priority to good governance. “Corruption, irregularities and delay will not be tolerated,” the prime minister said.
The prime minister also announced a new policy on investment in media sector. The policy requires media houses to deposit certain collateral before starting a new venture, something aimed at ensuring security of investment.
He also said that the government is committed to multi-party competitive politics, human rights, rule of law and freedom of expression.
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