UN welcomes the formation of new interim government in Nepal

Kathmandu, Apr 1 (UNI) The United Nations Mission in Nepal (UNMIN) has welcomed the formation of a new interim government in the country which also includes the Maoists.

'' I welcome the establishment of the new interim government as a key moment for the consolidation of Nepal's peace process and I congratulate the leaders of the eight political parties on their willingness to share responsibilities in this transitional period,'' said Ian Martin, Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General in a statement.

'' A truly unified government should be in a stronger position to face the challenges still ahead: creating conditions for a credible Constituent Assembly election, addressing the legitimate demands of groups in Nepalese society calling for more inclusive democracy, establishing effective law enforcement across the country and providing for the future of former combatants and a wider reform of the security sector,'' Mr Martin said.

The United Nations will work to help ensure full compliance with the commitments made by the parties to the Agreement on the Monitoring of the Management of Arms and Armies, as well as to support and monitor the electoral process, the UN official said.

'' The challenges ahead cannot be overemphasised. I therefore welcome the renewed commitments intended to create a conducive environment for polls and to provide for more effective monitoring of agreements, which will be crucial in transforming conditions throughout the districts and which the United Nations is committed to assist.'' He added that effective law enforcement which respects international standards, accountability for violations of citizens' rights and ending breaches of the commitments under the Comprehensive Peace Agreement will be critical elements for success in the coming months.

Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala formed a 22-member cabinet today which saw the inclusion of five ministers from the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist).

UNI