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India, US, EU and Japan congratulate Prachanda on his election as PM

Moments after he was elected as the prime minister of Nepal, India, United States, European Union and Japan have extended congratulations to Maoist chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda'.

The Prime Minister of India Dr. Manmohan Singh conveyed his felicitations and congratulations, stating, "On behalf of the Government and people of India, and on my own behalf, please accept my felicitations and congratulations on your election as Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal."

Singh said, "I look forward to working with you to further develop the bonds of good neighbourliness that unite our peoples and nations, and to deepen the friendly relations that so happily exist between our two countries. We in south Asia share linked destinies, and are engaged in a common struggle against poverty, disease and hunger. India will continue to stand by the people and government of Nepal in consolidating your peaceful democratic transition and in your developmental efforts."

Dr. Singh has said that he looks forward to meeting with Prachanda in the near future and "would be happy to receive you in India as our guest at your earliest convenience."

Likewise, the United States has also congratulated "the people of Nepal and their Constituent Assembly on the election of Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal."

"We hope that election of the Prime Minister removes the last barrier to speedy formation of a government, constructive action on key issues facing Nepal, and a start on the difficult but necessary task of drafting Nepal's new constitution," the US has said in its message.

"The United States will continue its strong support for peace, democracy, human rights and development in Nepal. We look forward to working with the new government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal and building upon the historic ties between our peoples," it further stated.

The European Union Heads of Missions in Kathmandu has welcomed the election of the Prime Minister stating that it ends "a period of uncertainty and paves the way for government formation."

"We look forward to the new Government delivering to the people to meet their expectations for a prosperous future and taking forward the peace process, including through creating the environment for the drafting of a constitution that secures peace, stability and democracy. The EU stands ready to support the new Government in this work."

Likewise, Japan has also extended congratulations to Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda.

"At this important period, the Government of Japan sincerely wishes that the peace process will continue through the concerted efforts of all the political parties so that the happiness and prosperity of Nepali people will be realized as soon as possible. The Government of Japan always has a firm commitment to the democratization process, for peace and prosperity in Nepal. At the same time, the Government of Japan keenly hopes that the new leadership would be able to accomplish the major task of drafting New Constitution by consensus among all political parties." nepalnews.com sd Aug 15 08