Kathmandu, May 2:

The international community is willing to extend its support to Nepal, according to Pauli Mustonen, the charge d’affaires of the embassy of Finland and the chairman of the European Union in Nepal.

Speaking at a programme here today, Mustonen also urged the authorities to be more accountable and transparent. NC leader Sujata Koirala urged her colleagues to concentrate on taking the country forward.

“Accountability and transparancy are the key elements of a democratic system and good governance. The donors are clear about those factors,” Mustonen said, lauding the media’s role in the revival of the House. He expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the movement for democracy.

Mustonen, on behalf of the FNJ, Kathmandu District Committee, awarded active journalism awards carrying a purse of Rs 15,000 each to Rajendra Sthapit of the Janaastha Weekly and Nitu Pandit of Metro FM at the programme.

Sujata Koirala said: “The seven parties should focus on creating a new peaceful and stable Nepal instead of fighting for portfolios.” Maoists should be brought to the mainstream based on the 12-point parties-Maoist agreement.” She also lauded the media’s “big” role in the people’s movement.

Dr Minendra Rizal of the NC (D) said elections to the Constituent Assembly should be held through the Parliament.