The United Nations has said it closely consults and partners with the government of Nepal in planning and implementing development activities.

The statement from the UN Office of the Resident Coordinator in Nepal on Friday comes in light of media reports that the UN office in Nepal was conducting a detailed study on highly sensitive political issues such as federalism, identity politics and ethnicity without clearing it with the government.

Two major dailies cited “highly-placed sources” to report on Friday that the UN office was conducting the study to forecast the kind of situation that may surface after Nepal adopts a federal set-up.

The UN reiterated its support to Nepal towards achieving the “shared objective of a peaceful and prosperous federal Nepal” as laid out in the constitution, and the achievement of the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development, according to the statement.

“Nepal is a respected member of the United Nations and the UN highly values the long and trusting partnership with the government in addressing global challenges on peace and security, human rights and the Sustainable Development Goals,” the country office stated.