Kathmandu: The European Union (EU) has underlined the need to improve the security environment for "credible elections" in Nepal, and pledged to send monitors for the crucial constituent Assembly polls on April 10.

"Credible, free and fair elections, where people can participate without intimidation and parties can campaign freely, will be vital to long term peace in Nepal," the EU said in a statement here. It urged all the parties to abide by the election code of conduct, and wanted the government to give the necessary political support to the police forces to allow them to uphold the rule of law.

"Creating an environment for credible elections will involve improving public security and continuing dialogue with marginalised groups in which all are assured that their interests will be fully taken in consideration in the Constituent Assembly," the EU stated. It pledged to send a mission to Nepal to observe the constituent Assembly election process that will form a body to decide the fate of the 238-year-old monarchy and frame a new Constitution for the country.

In a statement issued by the French Embassy, which holds the local presidency of the EU, the group welcomed the announcement of election date and stated that the EU "stands ready to support the elections and to send an election observation mission".

The EU stressed the need to create proper election climate by improving public security and continuing dialogue with marginalised groups. The landmark peace process in Nepal got a boost after the CPN-Maoist rejoined the government last month and agreed to take part in the polls as the major parties agreed to their key demands for declaring Nepal a republic subject to the endorsement by the Constituent Assembly.

Source : PTI