The Kathmandu-based international community mainly counties from West and Europe have congratulated the Nepali people for holding the local polls in 20 years.

 Issuing a statement on Wednesday, embassies of Australia, Denmark, Germany, European Union Delegation, Finland, Norway, Switzerland, United Kingdom and United States of America congratulated the people of Nepal on their participation in the first local elections in 20 years.

“These elections are an important contribution towards revitalizing democracy at the grassroots level, we recognize the government of Nepal and the Election Commission’s significant efforts which allowed the completion of the complex and technical preparations needed to undertake nation-wide elections for the 753 local units. This provides important lessons for future elections,” read the countries said in the statement.

 The international community has encouraged the political parties and the government to consolidate the role of the newly elected local authorities, so that they can fulfil the promise of decentralisation, outlined in the constitution.

 Noting that the dates for the elections to State Assemblies and the House of Representatives have already been set, the countries have said that these are important steps on the road to the effective implementation of the Constitution.

“We trust that these elections will be held in a peaceful, inclusive and broadly supported manner,” the statement read.

The countries have reaffirmed their commitment to work with all stakeholders for further implementation of the Constitution and in support of the aspirations of the Nepali people.