Readout
Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
January 22, 2016
Deputy Secretary Blinken spoke with Nepali Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli via phone this morning to discuss the political crisis in Nepal. The Deputy Secretary urged Prime Minister Oli to represent the interests of all Nepalis and take concrete steps to resolve the political impasse, emphasizing the importance of all sides working toward a compromise and not taking unilateral steps. Deputy Secretary Blinken called for Nepali authorities to exercise restraint in responding to protests. The Deputy Secretary told Prime Minister Oli the United States stands ready to further partner with Nepal to ensure earthquake reconstruction efforts are efficient, transparent, and inclusive.