Kathmandu, May 3

Japan today said it sincerely welcomed the forthcoming local level elections, which are scheduled to be held for the first time in twenty years in Nepal.

Issuing a statement, the Japanese Embassy in Kathmandu said: “Japan expresses deep respect to all stakeholders concerned, including political parties, the government, the Election Commission and civil society, who have worked hard to make these epoch-making elections possible.” It said Japan hoped to see Nepal making significant progress towards further democratisation with steady implementation of the constitution that was promulgated in 2015.

“Japan strongly wishes that the local elections would be inclusive, with participation of all groups who constitute Nepali society, and be conducted in a fair, impartial and peaceful manner,” the statement read further. Calling Nepal a true friend, Japan assured of extending its continued support to the people of Nepal for the country’s peace and stability and its democratisation and socio-economic development.