Foreign Ministry Statement on Nepal

On April 21, 2006, the Ministry of External Affairs released a statement after King Gyanendra of Nepal announced that he would hand over the political power he had assumed 14 months ago back to the people and asked the seven-party alliance to name a new Prime Minister. Presented below is the full text of the statement:

Statement on Nepal

21/04/2006

We have seen the address to the Nation by His Majesty, King Gyanendra. India welcomes his intention to transfer all executive power of the State to a government constituted by the alliance of the seven political parties, which has been in the forefront of the movement by the people of Nepal for the restoration of multi-party democracy and their democratic freedoms. This action by His Majesty the King of Nepal, who has reaffirmed his commitment to multiparty democracy and constitutional monarchy, should now pave the way for the restoration of political stability and economic recovery of the country.

The people of Nepal have undergone acute suffering and economic hardship during the last several months, but have always kept their faith with democracy and freedom. They deserve our respect and admiration. We sincerely hope that the aspirations of the people of Nepal can now be addressed by enabling them to enjoy their rights through a democratic electoral exercise free from the threat of violence.

India has stood by the people of Nepal in their hour of need and now stands ready to render all possible assistance to enable Nepal to achieve political stability and economic recovery at the earliest possible date.

New Delhi

April 21, 2006

Source: Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, Delhi.