UK minister for State and International Development Alan Duncan expressed his hope that Nepal will have its constitution within a year. Addressing a press conference in British Embassy, Minister Duncan said that he is pleased to be back in Nepal within a year. “This is my fifth visit to this beautiful country. As always, my welcome in Nepal has been fantastic.  Links between our two countries are deep and longstanding – indeed, plans are underway to mark the 200 anniversary of diplomatic ties next year, “ said minister.  

 “I came to see how UK Aid is helping the poorest and changing lives and to discuss the next phase of the UK’s development program. I met with political leaders, including the Chairman of the Interim Electoral Council and Home Minister.  I congratulated the Chairman for holding successful Elections and have urged all political parties to accelerated progress on the new Constituent Assembly,” minister Duncan said.

 During his stay in Nepal, he visited Pokhara and saw how the UK-funded Gurkha Welfare Scheme, has provided safe, clean water and much needed sanitation facilities to local people, including the families of ex-Gurkhas who had served in the British Army.

 “The UK’s development program in Nepal has almost doubled in size this year, and DFID will spend £103m in Nepal by the end of March 2014. I have discussed the programme with the DFID team here in Kathmandu and the impact of the UK’s assistance in health, education, road-building and jobs and in supporting the recent CA elections,” minister said.

 “I also discussed the future of DFID’s development support beyond 2015. Economic development is the only way that Nepal can leave behind poverty for good. Over the coming years, the UK’s development programme will see a shift from the vital peace-building work that has helped build the peace since the end of the Conflict to an increased focus on creating vital jobs and growth. I will leave hopeful that Nepal will have its constitution within a year, and convinced of the continuing strength of our partnership,” said British minister in his press statement.