US to continue support to democracy in Nepal, says envoy

The United States today said that holding free and fair elections at the earliest is the best way to ensure a democratic, prosperous and inclusive Nepal.
"As a long time friend of Nepal, I want to stress that holding free and fair elections soon is the best way to ensure a democratic, prosperous and inclusive Nepal," US Ambassador to Nepal Peter W Bodde said addressing a function here.
"Elections are essential for democracy as are respect for individual rights, a free press, and a vibrant civil society," he pointed out.
He also assured to continue extending support for Nepal's governance and democratisation process.

"After an election date is announced, we stand ready to assist you," he said adding, "We will continue to work side by side with you on improving democracy and governance and on challenges such as education and gender equality".
"At a time when Nepal is approaching elections and awaiting the drafting of the constitution, it is worth recalling here that establishment of democracy in US did not happen overnight," he said adding, "11 years passed between the time of the declaration of independence and the adoption of the US Constitution".