Regional collaboration stressed to eradicate terrorism

Kathmandu, Aug 10: Speakers at a programme have underscored the need of wiping out terrorism from South Asia to ensure regional prosperity. However, only collaborative efforts can eradicate the terrorism, a common problem in the region, they added.     

The political leaders and experts were speaking at a programme relating to terrorism in South Asia organized by the Nepal-India Development Forum in Kathmandu on Sunday.     

On the occasion, former Deputy Prime Minister Upendra Yadav said abject poverty and unemployment were some of the factors to fuel terrorism. Until the power and resources are equally distributed, society lacks peace and law and order, he said.     

"It is time to find the root causes of terrorism and organized crime. India, as the largest country in the South Asia, can take a lead to curb terrorism and crimes, to which others can extend support," he argued.     

Former Minister for Defense Dr Minendra Rijal said the Nepal-India relations are subsisting since time immemorial. Both countries should be serious to curb border crimes because we have open border. He made it clear that all political parties in Nepal have the stand that they would not let Nepali territory be used against India.     

Former Home Minister Shakti Bahadur Basnet viewed poverty, lack of education and inequality were some of the major causes behind terrorism in South Asia. Terrorism needs to be eradicated with the guarantee of education, health, inclusion and diversity management, according to him.     

Moreover, former Deputy Prime Minister Rajendra Mahato viewed terrorism is unacceptable in the world, so none can endorse it.     

Forum's Chairman Ram Kishor Singh said terrorism is the most challenging obstructions to the development and prosperity in South Asia. It requires collaborative efforts to wipe out it.     

Other experts as Dr Indra Adhikari, Madhu Raman Acharya and Dr Dinesh Tripathi made presentations in the programme.(RSS)