UK Minister for International Development Mike Foster called on Minister for Health and Population Giri Raj Mani Pokhrel at the latter’s office Tuesday.
During the meeting the two discussed on the implementation and challenges of the Safe Motherhood Programme, millennium development goals (MDGs) and process on purchasing the goods for the programme, informed minister Pokhrel after the meeting.
British Department for International Development (DFID) has announced a financial assistance of Rs. 340 million for the programme.
Meanwhile, issuing a statement upon his arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu on Tuesday , Minister Foster lauded the progress of the ongoing peace process.
"It’s good to see that progress has been made in the peace process- the constituent assembly members have wrapped up their consultation with the people and the army integration special
committee is in place to take forward issues around the future of the armies," the statement said.
"But there is still a long way to go before the peace process concludes, the new constitution written and agreed, and stability restored across Nepal. I encourage all parties concerned to continue to work together to create a new constitution, and deliver peace and development to the people," the statement further read.
"The UK is committed to working with the government and I am looking forward to discussing how we can work together to progress on peace, delivery of development to the people of Nepal, and the Nepal development Strategy in the run up to Nepal Development Forum meeting. In May, I will also be launching DFID’s new Nepal Country Plan for the next three years, from April 2009 to March 2012, which is designed to support Nepal’s efforts to achieve peace and development."
Minister Foster who arrived here today went to Nepalgunj, mid-western city of the country, after the meeting.
Our correspondent in Nepalgunj, Banke, reported that Minister Foster visited South Asian College of Modern Technology at Manikapur VDC of the district and observed the plumbing training centre run by the College under the British assistance. He also observed the office building of Mid-west regional police training centre constructed with the financial support of DFID.
Responding to journalists about his visit, Minister Foster said he felt that the Nepalese had a strong desire for peace and development and that development process in Nepal was moving ahead gradually. "Political parties in Nepal should work together to write the new constitution within the stipulated date."
Foster is scheduled to visit Bheri Zonal Hospital and seventh division cantonment of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) situated in Kailali district Wednesday before he goes to Accham district where he will see how the UK’s work with the World Food Programme is giving victims of drought and conflict a vital lifeline of support.
Minister Foster who is on a three-day visit will hold discussions with top leaders and members of the cabinet, including Finance Minister Dr. Baburam Bhattarai, besides meeting members of the CA, donor community and the private sector.
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