Kathmandu: India has welcomed the announcement of the Constituent Assembly elections in Nepal on November 19, saying that the polls will "usher in an era of peace, stability, progress and prosperity" in the country.
"We warmly welcome the announcement of election date by Nepal government as it reflects collective desires of the Nepalese people," said a statement from the Indian Embassy here.
"We are confident that elections will enable the finalisation of a new constitution and usher in an era of peace, stability, progress and prosperity in Nepal," the statement said.
Norwegian government too congratulated the people of Nepal saying election at this moment of time is crucial to bring Nepal "back on track for the continuation of a peaceful, democratic and inclusive Nepal."
"We therefore, welcome the decision by the political parties to rise above party politics and coming to an agreement that puts the welfare of the nation first," reads a statement issued by Norwegian embassy here.
Meanwhile, Switzerland said democratic elections are a prerequisite for the consolidation of the transformation of Nepal into an inclusive and democratic federal state.
"They are also essential for increased effectiveness of development cooperation," the Swiss embassy said.
Swiss government has also urged all political parties to take part in these elections and do everything possible to ensure that the elections are free from intimidation and violence.
Earlier, US had welcomed the announcement mentioning that they have been encouraging the Government of Nepal to take this important step after the dissolution of the Constituent Assembly in May last year.
"We welcome the announcement by the Council of Ministers in Nepal that Constituent Assembly elections will take place on November 19, 2013," Jennifer R Paski, spokesperson for the US Department of State said.
"We congratulate the people of Nepal as they prepare for free, fair, and inclusive elections, which are the hallmark of every democracy. The United States remains committed to supporting Nepal`s election preparations, including through voter registration and education and the organisation of observer missions," said Paski.
Nepal had plunged into a political and constitutional crisis after the Constituent Assembly was dissolved without promulgating the Constitution last year and fresh elections to be held in November, 2012, did not take place, pushing the country into a political deadlock.
With the formation of the election government led by Chief Justice of Nepal, Khil Raj Regmi in March, the political parties had earlier tentatively agreed to conduct the elections in June or by December this year.
PTI
