KATHMANDU: Completing his tenure, US Ambassador to Nepal, Ambassador Peter W. Bodde, returned home on Tuesday evening. Bodde, who succeeded to Scott H. Delisi, spent three years in the US mission in Kathmandu.

In his farewell statement, Bodde said that he was "extremely grateful to have had the life experience of representing the United States during the past three years of Nepal’s evolving political development."

" We have seen much progress and some real successes such as: the reintegration of the former combatants into the Nepal Army; the 2013 election that was free, fair and inclusive with an almost an 80% voter turnout; and the overwhelmingly positive international response to Nepal’s earthquake of April 25th."

"Having been part of this piece of Nepal’s history, I especially want to note how optimistic I am for Nepal’s future. As Nepal enters the final stages of drafting and promulgating its constitution, it must make every effort to ensure that the document is inclusive and flexible to address future needs. At the same time, the horrific violent acts that have taken place in the last two weeks must stop. The bandhs and strikes are seriously harming Nepal’s economy."

"I believe, as I wrote months ago, Nepal is once again at a crossroads. At this time, everyone should put the needs of the nation first and not let personal political and party ambitions drive the process. This historic moment should not be squandered.”