Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today commended political parties in Nepal for the formation of an interim government there led by Chief Justice Khil Raj Regmi, saying India remains steadfast in its support in their effort to build a stable, democratic and prosperous Nepal.
"He (PM) commended the people and political parties of Nepal on reaching the agreement, which represents an important step in taking forward the political process in Nepal for consolidating the democratic gains and institutionalising multi-party democracy in the country," an official release said.
The Prime Minister expressed "greatest pleasure" in conveying the "best wishes" of the Government and people of India as the interim government there prepares to undertake the critical task of holding early elections for the Constituent Assembly-cum-Parliament of Nepal, it said.
Singh also extended any assistance required for the successful conduct of the elections in Nepal.
"He noted that India remains steadfast in its support to the people of Nepal in their effort to build a stable, democratic and prosperous Nepal," the release said.
External Affairs Minister (EAM) Salman Khurshid also congratulated Madhav Prasad Ghimire on taking charge as the Minister of Home and Foreign Affairs of Nepal.
"EAM emphasised that India and Nepal enjoy a close and unique relationship, to which India attaches the highest priority and said that he was looking forward to working closely with him to widen and deepen bilateral ties," a statement said.
India remains steadfast in its commitment to extent the support needed by the Nepalese government for holding early elections and for Nepal's economic development, in accordance with the aspirations and priorities of the people and Government of Nepal, Khurshid noted.
