Awwal 16, 1432 H/ April 20, 2011, SPA -- Indian External Affairs Minister SM Krishna on Wednesday expressed concern over Nepal's ongoing peace process after talks with Nepalese leaders on the first day of a three-day visit to Kathmandu, dpa reported. Politicians in the Himalayan state are at odds over the drafting of a new constitution, due to be completed by May 28, and over key points of the peace process, including how to reintegrate former Maoist combatants, who fought a decade-long civil war that ended in 2006. "I discussed the issue of peace and constitution with the Prime Minister (Jhalanath Khanal)," Krishna said. "The main responsibility for these rests on the prime minister." Krishna also held meetings with President Ram Baran Yadav and Deputy Prime Minister Bharat Mohan Adhikari. "I am sure that this government will be able to address them (the issues of the peace process and constitution)," Krishna added. India would not be involved in any activities that threatened Nepal's security, he added. Krishna is scheduled to meet leaders of other political parties on Thursday. Observers say the visit came at a meaningful time. "India has always had a significant role in Nepal's politics," said political analyst Tirtha Koirala. "In the current context, Krishna's visit could be important as most of the politicians go to Delhi for advice in times of political crisis in Nepal." "In a time of political differences among political parties as of now, it is likely that India will try to influence the parties toward a consensus," he added.
