Nepalese Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Tuesday said the emergency rule imposed in the country was not necessary to fight the Maoist rebels and asserted that the US and Britain have pledged their support in the battle against terrorism. I believe that fight against the Maoists may continue even in the absence of emergency, he said.
On extension of emergency that expires on May 25, he said that I will make decision after holding discussions with my cabinet colleagues in the matter.
Returning from his visit to the US and UK, Deuba said the Bush administration has asked the Congress to approve a package of 20 million dollars to help Nepal in her fight against terrorism and reduce poverty. The Congress is most likely to approve the aid, he added.
The US will work out the details of assistance after studying the report by its military team, which visited the rebel affected areas in western Nepal, he said.
On the issue of holding talks with the ultras, he said in the present circumstances a dialogue was not possible. Britain has assured to help fight the Maoists as well as provide financial aid to help Nepal, he said.
I met Prime Minister Tony Blair and the members of House of Lords and House of Commons, who hold very positive attitude towards Nepal's problems, he said.
I have also talked to the British Prime Minister about the British Gurkha's problem and he showed sympathy towards them, the Prime Minister said.
I have not sought physical presence of any foreign troops to help Nepal in its fight against terror, he said.
Bureau Report