Minister Rana reaffirms her commitment for Sudurpaschim's development

Kathmandu, Sept 11: Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Arzu Rana Deuba reaffirmed that she will always strive for advancement of Sudurpaschim Province.     

In a meeting with the delegates from Sudurpaschim Sarokar Manch here today, Minister Rana highlighted her longstanding commitment to improving health, advancing gender cause with emphasis on reproductive health and safe motherhood and reiterated her commitment towards improving living standards of people in this region whether she is holding public post or not.     

Expressing her concern over escalating suicide cases in Nepal, Rana noted that the Sudurpaschim Province recorded a higher rate of suicides compared to other provinces and thus urged the Manch to take action towards this.     

Furthermore, the Minister mentioned the glaring fact that 15 per cent of those committed suicide were below the age of 20 years. "It is grave serious situation," she remarked in aghast.     

To address the rising cases of suicide, she called for setting up psychosocial counseling centres in every local level and scaling up works in mental health sector.     

The visiting delegation, on the occasion, extended thankfulness to Foreign Minister Rana for raising the issues relating to local development projects in Sudurpaschim Province as well as bordering points related matters to the higher level of the Indian government during her recent official visit to India.     

Commending her efforts to taking up the matter relating to advancing the Pancheshwor Multipurpose Project during her visit so that Nepal could leverage optimum benefits, they urged her to make more efforts for its effective implementation.     

The Manch also noted that Minister Rana for broaching the issue relating to upgrading and operating Gauriphanta checkpoint at its full capacity and constructing a multipurpose sports ground at Phapla of Dhangadhi.     

During the meeting with the delegates of the Manch, Minister Rana pledged to take initiatives for improving bordering points and security posts in all bordering countries.     

On the occasion, Manch's President Bahadur Singh Bista and other members extended their best wishes to Minister Rana for successful tenure as the Foreign Minister.     

They also honoured Minister Rana for taking up the esteemed role as the country's Foreign Minister representing the remote region like Sudurpaschim province. (RSS)