Kathmandu-based EU missions together with Norway, Switzerland and Australia welcomed the present progress on the implementation of the peace process and the commitment to complete the Constitution drafting process within time.

“The new momentum and progress achieved in the high level negotiations on system of governance and a new national government structure for Nepal, including contentious constitutional issues, is encouraging. We hope that the momentum will contribute to the completion of a new democratic and inclusive constitution responding to the aspirations of the Nepali people, while containing adequate checks and balances, and strengthening the rule of law,” they said in a statement issued on Wednesday.

“Whilst acknowledging impending deadlines, we also urge all political parties to ensure that adequate public consultation processes on the constitution remain in place.”

In the context of the substantial progress already achieved recently on the peace process and the expectations for more conclusive discussions, the EU missions, Norway, Switzerland and Australia also noted that the fight against impunity and adequate investigation and prosecution of conflict-era human rights violations “should not be sacrificed to the need of expedient solutions in other areas. We urge all parties to ensure the transitional justice mechanisms are established with full independence and in compliance with international standards.”

“We strongly believe that transitional justice mechanisms which are genuinely independent, seek both truth and reconciliation, and which give victims the fullest opportunity for redress, are essential to consolidate the peace process,” they said in the statement.

The EU together with Norway, Switzerland and Australia also reaffirmed their support to the peace process at this pivotal time and look forward to the finalisation of the Constitution.

“This will pave the way for free and fair elections and ensure lasting peace and stability in Nepal,” added the statement. Nepalnews.com