Britain to continue assistance to Nepal

Britain will continue to provide development assistance to Nepal, Nepalese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Wednesday.

"Britain is ready to extend its support to Nepal in strong way, "the ministry said in a press release after British Special Representative to Nepal Sir Jeffrey Russell James met Nepalese Minister for Foreign Affairs Ramesh Nath Pandey Tuesday.

During the meeting with Pandey, James said that during his visit to some places in Nepal, he found that the security situation was much improved there, the press release said.

On the occasion, Pandey explained about the rationale of and need for the King Gyanendra's takeover of power on Feb. 1, the press release said, adding, "Pandey also informed that the initiations have been taken for holding municipal elections within April 13, 2006, with the improvement in the security situation in Nepal."

They exchanged views on current political development in Nepal.

Special envoy James, who arrived here a week ago to facilitate the peace process, held talks with high-ranking government officials, leaders of political parties and heads of security forces,among others.