KATHMANDU, April 18: Under Secretary of State for Defense and Minister for Veterans of UK, Kevan Jones, pledged his country´s support for peace and development to Nepal on Saturday.
"The people of Nepal can be assured of the UK´s steadfast support, both for peace-building and for development," said Jones in a statement issued in Kathmandu before his departure. "We encourage the Government of Nepal to take forward the peace process, including the drafting of a new constitution that secures peace, stability and democracy." [break]
He also pledged British support to the process of integration of army. "I have heard how progress on the question of army integration is so fundamental to a successful conclusion of the ongoing peace process, and I can say that the UK continues to stand ready to support Nepal in this process, in any way we can," he added.
Jones also stressed the need for upholding the rule of law and the independence of state institutions during transition. He gave special emphasis on safeguarding an independent judiciary, free from interference.
Terming his visit "enjoyable and extremely useful" Jones said, "I am leaving with a feeling of great affection and respect for Nepal and pride in our longstanding and enduring relationship."
Jones said he met with many representatives of Regimental and ex-Gurkha Servicemen´s organizations during his visits. "Contrary to some reporting, the Gurkha Army Ex-Servicemen´s Organization (GAESO) were invited to meet with me," he said. "I was very disappointed that they declined to do so."
Appreciating the role of British Gurkha and pledging more support to Gurkha Welfare Scheme, Jones said, "I very much hope that the UK will be able to recruit Gurkhas into the British Army into the future."
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