Chair of the European Parliament Delegation for relations with the countries of South Asia has called on India to help ensure essential supplies reach Nepal and that cross-border trade is not impeded.

“The unofficial ‘blockade’ at the Nepali border only serves to hurt the Nepali people who are still recovering from the devastating earthquakes earlier this year,” Jean Lambert said in a statement on Saturday, highlighting the need for regional solidarity in this new phase of Nepal’s development. She said the fuel shortages as a result of the blockade were also having an impact on tourism in what is usually the peak season in Nepal, causing further damage to the economy of the country and the livelihoods of many.

Lambert welcomed reports earlier this week that Prime Minister KP Oli was seeking talks with Madhesi groups to address grievances with the constitution.