General Secretary of CPN (UML) Shankar Pokharel has stated that the two friendly nations, India and China, recently agreed to reopen the Lipulekh Pass for trade purposes without Nepal's consent, ignoring the sensitivity of Nepal's concerns.
Speaking at a press meet organized by the Mahottari Journalists Association in Bardibas on Thursday, General Secretary Pokharel said, "We have introduced a map incorporating the Kalapani territory based on facts and truth; it is in accordance with the 1816 Sugauli Treaty."
General Secretary Pokharel clarified that even though both neighboring friendly nations did not consult Nepal in their recent agreement, the goodwill visit of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to China and India would not be stopped because of the recent development.
"We want to resolve every problem through mutual dialogue and discussion, and such an opportunity for dialogue can be found during the goodwill visit itself," he said, "Therefore, there is no question of halting this visit from Nepal's side."
Mentioning that Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already sent diplomatic notes to China and India regarding the Lipulekh issue, clearly stating its disagreement, General Secretary Pokharel said that both friendly nations must now provide a logical conclusion.
On a different context, General Secretary Pokharel stated that political stability and prosperity are the main goals of his party. He clarified that current party activities are focused on this goal.
"We are preparing for the party's second statute convention. This convention will send a message, through policies and statutes, to build our party into a strong national force," Pokharel said.
General Secretary Pokharel stated that revenue growth, export growth, and capital expenditure growth have indicated economic reforms in the country compared to the past year since the formation of the current government. "Now, the government must focus on the remaining laws required for the implementation of federalism," he said.
General Secretary Pokharel stated that the agreement on constitutional amendment made during the formation of the current government between Nepali Congress and CPN (UML) would be implemented.
"In the current National Assembly, the ruling parties do not have a strong presence. Now, a strong presence will be established in the National Assembly through the election to be held this year. Immediately after that, the constitutional amendment will be initiated," he clarified in response to journalists' queries.
.
