[Title] Message from H.E. Mr. Girija Prasad Koirala Prime Minister of Nepal on the 50th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and Nepal

Your Excellency Mr. Tsutomu Hiraoka, Ambassador of Japan

Honorable Members of the House of Representatives of Japan

Excellencies

Distinguished Guests

Ladies and Gentlemen

It is a great pleasure to extend my best wishes and felicitation on this happy occasion of the 50th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Nepal and Japan. I would like to express my appreciation to the Japanese Embassy and the Japanese Ambassador for inviting me to share my thoughts on this occasion, which is a landmark in our history. Please bear with me that I could not make my personal presence here this evening despite my strong desire.

The year 2006 has been a special year in the annals of Nepali history. We have restored democracy as a result of an unprecedented peaceful People's Movement. The Nepali people have shown courage and maturity to carve their destiny through the establishment of an inclusive and participatory democracy, encompassing all races, culture, geographic regions, income brackets, and gender. We recall with satisfaction and gratitude the support and solidarity exhibited by the Japanese people in our struggle against autocracy. The present Government of the Seven Party Alliance constituted after the People's Movement is duty-bound to follow the mandate of the people. As you might be aware, we have defined a road map for the country's political future leading to the election of the constituent assembly to formulate a new constitution for our nation. We have also sought the support of the United Nations in the peace process to bring an end to the decade long armed conflict. This will lay the foundation for the permanent peace stability and a truly representative inclusive and plural democracy reflecting the hopes and aspirations of our countrymen.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

The country is faced with serious economic challenges. The problems before us are: week economic base, rampant poverty, uneven development and unemployment. The problems got exacerbated during the period of conflict situation. Furthermore popular expectations in the aftermath of the successful People's Movement have soared. Expectations from the new government are high. We are determined to address these issues with priority and urgency. We are committed to make the best use of our own internal resources, and the support received from international community. Our development strategy is participatory which accords highest role to the communities and people at the lowest rung. This is compatible with the political system we have chosen. The democratic environment in the country has direct bearings on our international relations as well. We want to enrich, strengthen and consolidate our relationships with all our international partners in transparent and mutually beneficial manner, respecting each other's concerns.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Against this backdrop, Nepali people cherish immense love and deep respects for the Japanese people. They repose brotherly trust on them. The Government and people of Japan have been reliable partners in Nepal's socio-economic development of Nepal's infrastructure, education, health, agriculture and human resources development is the testimony of the country's love and solidarity with the people of Nepal. We deeply appreciate this generosity of Japan in our development endeavors.

The enhanced goodwill, broadened understanding and wider friendship between the two counties are treated assets which have grown over time from our intimate associations. I think these assets should be utilized to meet the challenging needs of time and give new dimensions to our relationships. Both sides need to facilitate increase people-to-people contacts, social and cultural exchanges and enhanced business activities so that our people can approach each other like brothers and sisters. We believe the two Governments have to widen the avenues of cooperation and collaboration not only at the bilateral level, but also at the regional and international levels in keeping with the emerging demands of the globalized age.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Lastly, I reiterate my appreciation to the organizers of this program. This program has given us opportunity to recollect our achievements in bilateral relationships of the last fifty years. It has provided time to remember the institutions and individuals who made tremendous contributions through their tireless efforts to the growth and diversification of our relationships. Of the numerous such individuals and institutions, I can't forget to mention the name of my friend late Hashimoto, the former Prime Minister of Japan. I take this opportunity to pay tribute to the departed soul for his profound contribution to deepen Nepal-Japan friendship.

Undoubtedly, our relations have grown from strength. A good past is a beginning into the good future.

Thank you very much for your attention.