Shirish B Pradhan

Kathmandu: Maoist supremo Prachanda, whose party is set to lead a coalition government in Nepal, has said India must ensure a steady supply of essential goods to his land-locked country keeping in mind the "sensitive political situation".

If a proper atmosphere for cooperation can be created in this matter, it will certainly help in taking the bilateral relations to a "new high", he told businessmen at the Federation of Nepalese Chamber of Commerce and Industries here last evening.

He refuted reports that after the Maoists victory in the crucial constituent assembly polls, India has halted supply of cement, iron rods and other building materials to Nepal, creating scarcity in the country's construction industry.

The Maoist chief said if any problem arises in the smooth supply of essential goods to Nepal from India at this "sensitive political situation", it would have a "long-term negative impact" on bilateral relations.

"This matter also came up during the discussion I had with officials in Delhi," he said hinting at his telephonic conversation with External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday.

"As Nepalese people have given a legitimate mandate to the Maoists to take a lead role in drafting the new constitution and rebuilding Nepal, I believe India has well understood and accepted this reality and time and again commitment has been expressed to move the relations forward," Prachanda said.

"The officials in Delhi have assured me that they would like to develop relations with the CPN-Maoist in all fields," Prachanda said, adding, "I have held talks on several occasions with Indian ambassador and other officials regarding the matter."

He said realising the people's aspirations, India had changed its "two-pillar theory" (of multiparty system and constitutional monarchy) on Nepal saying that it would honour whatever would be the verdict of the people of Nepal on monarchy.

Prachanda said they were working out plans on how India's cooperation can be sought for Nepal's development projects.

"Proper ground has been prepared for seeking India's cooperation in our development efforts as we have close geographical, cultural, economic and political ties.

"I have held serious discussions with officials in New Delhi in the matter," the Maoist leader added.

Those who are spreading "rumours" that the Maoists might not get international support and cooperation are the forces who do not want to see economic prosperity and development of Nepal, he claimed.

He said the Maoists have already conveyed to the EU, the World Bank and other organisations their commitment to peace, multiparty democracy and economic progress.

Source : PTI