Norway congratulates the People of Nepal and the democratic movement on the restoration of democracy in the country.
We are pleased to see that the Seven Party Alliance will be forming a new government and that the King has called for the restoration of Parliament. We call on all parties to move forward constructively according to the roadmap for peace and democracy given by the SPA. Provided that Parliament is restored and a new government established, Norway will restore normal relationships with Nepal. The following four immediate actions will be taken:
• The decision of July 2005 to reduce Norway’s support to Nepal by 10% is reversed. An additional NOK 15 million (USD 2,3 million) will be made available to make the level of support the same as before the royal takeover (NOK 150 million or USD 23 million). Depending on a continued positive development, further increases may be expected.
• The decision not to enter into new agreements with the Government of Nepal is reversed. An agreement to continue the support to rural electrification through the government ESAP programme will be negotiated as quickly as possible.
• The activities to share Norwegian experiences from peace processes will continue and be strengthened.
• Normal political relationships are restored. Norwegian Minister for Development Mr. Erik Solheim will visit Nepal for political consultations next week.
Royal Norwegian Embassy
Kathmandu
25.04.06