EU, UN welcomes new Nepal Government

Kathmandu Apr 2 (UNI) The international community has welcomed the constitution of a new interim government under the leadership of Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala in Nepal.

India, the European Union, the United Nations and the United states have hailed the formation of the interim government, including five members of the Maoists, who have pledged to come to the peaceful democratic process of the Himalayan nation.

The European Union said the formation of the interim government is an important milestone in the peace process.

''The EU encourages the interim government and parliament to propel the peace process by preparing for the constituent assembly polls,'' a statement issued by German ambassador to Nepal, Franz Ring, on behalf of the EU said.

UN Secretary General's representative in Nepal Ian Martin termed it a key moment for the consolidation of the peace process.

He also welcomed the renewed commitment to create an environment conducive to holding the constituent assembly elections. He reiterated the UN's support in ensuring that the commitments made by the political parties are complied with.

India has already welcomed the formation of the new government.

The United States has asked the Maoists to finally abandon violence as they have now joined the government.

The United States Embassy at a press conference said the next step of the peace process should be the holding of CA polls ''as quickly aspossible''.

''As a partner in the Interim Government, the Maoists must now be held fully accountable for their actions,'' said the statement.

''They must meet their commitments and at last join the mainstream as a non-violent political party,'' the statement added.

UNI