US President Bush congratulates PM Koirala

Kathmandu, May 20: The US has welcomed the 'parliament's historic proclamation' and says it ''supports the Nepal Government as it continues its efforts to restore and strengthen democracy.'' Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Richard A. Boucher testified on developments in Nepal before the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee Subcommittee on Near Eastern and South Asian Affairs on Thursday, the US embassy said in a statement here today.

''He affirmed U.S. support for Nepal'' the embassy stated.

''Nepal's future is in the hands of its people and its political leaders must take steps to meet the people's aspirations,'' said the Assistant Secretary.

''We have no interest in prescribing the architecture of their democracy. The United States stands behind the people's right to make that choice themselves through a free and fair political process, and will stand against any one who attempt to deny them the freedom that is their right," he said.

Meanwhile, US President George W Bush has congratulated Girija Prasad Koirala on his appointment as Prime Minister of Nepal.

In his congratulatory message, President Bush has said that the people of the United States salute the Nepali people's commitment to democracy and hard-fought struggle to restore a democratic Government in Nepal.

Stating that the transition period was a critical time, the US President has expressed the eagerness of his country to assist the brave people of Nepal who have stood up for freedom and democracy.

He has expressed his readiness to provide assistance in meeting the challenges that Nepal faces today.

The US President has said that he looks forward to working with the Prime Minister and the Government of Nepal when the peace process begins.

Meanwhile, the European Parliament adopted a resolution on Nepal this week welcoming Nepal's return to democratic rule, restoration of parliament, establishment of "interim government" and the initiative to set up constituent assembly to draft a new constitution, announcement of truce, and the reaffirmed commitment of the seven parties and the Maoists to their 12-point understanding.

The European Parliamentary debate on Nepal resulted in the resolution upon intervention of Neena Gill, chair of the delegation to SAARC and South Asian Countries.

''The restoration of sovereignty of the parliament's democratic authorities is only a first step toward real peace and a lasting democracy'', it said.

To consolidate the situation, an end of rights abuses, addressing of the root causes of conflict, respect for minority rights, devolution of power to regional and local levels and a more representative electoral system are needed, it added.

The resolution has also asked all member states to continue to freeze military aid, proposed EP to appoint special rapporteur to monitor the situation, called for further technical, logistical and financial assistance to Nepal.

UNI