EU stresses on free, fair polls in Nepal

European Union foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton has welcomed the formation of an Interim Election Council in Nepal to conduct national and local elections, according to a statement issued by her office on Friday.

The EU diplomat said that political leaders now need to make necessary concessions to guarantee that elections are held in 2013. She has also stated that the EU encourages all parties to extend their support to the newly appointed Interim Election Council Chairman as he undertakes this crucial and complex task.

"Credible, transparent and inclusive elections are vital to meeting the rights and aspirations of the people; to reviving Nepal's democratic institutions; to finalizing a new constitution; and to securing a lasting peace," said Ashton. nepalnews.com