The European Union (EU), Australia and China have also welcomed the recent agreement between the seven-party alliance (SPA) and Maoists.

A press release issued on behalf of EU presidency said, “The European Union warmly welcomes the significant progress in the peace process in Nepal, and in particular the signing of the agreement to form an inclusive interim government in Nepal.”

The EU also welcomed the decision to set up democratic institutions and the decision on elections to Constituent Assembly.

The EU, however, cautioned that most important challenge ahead would be securing an environment conducive to free and fair elections.

The EU also expressed its commitment for continued support to the peace process in Nepal, in close cooperation with the international community.

The statement further said that the United Nations’ role in assisting in the electoral and arms management processes would be vital.

The EU also called upon the new government to build trust and guarantee that human rights and the rule of law are respected in all parts of the country.

Meanwhile, welcoming the agreement, Australia has said this is a positive step towards restoring peace to Nepal.

A statement sent by the Australian embassy in Kathmandu, on behalf of Alexander Downer, MP and Minster for Foreign Affairs further said, “I urge both sides to make strenuous efforts to ensure the agreement is translated into lasting security, stability and a political environment conducive to economic and social development in Nepal.”

China has also welcomed the landmark agreement between the seven parties and the Maoists terming it as “significant” on Friday.

According to the Chinese news agency Xinhua, China hopes that the deal would lead to lasting peace, stability and development in the Himalayan nation.

“China is pleased to see the significant progress made in the peace process in Nepal,” the news agency quoted a statement by the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

“China sincerely hopes that the peace process will continue to promote the early realisation of peace, stability and development,” the statement said.

China sincerely hopes that the peace process in Nepal will continue to advance, said Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu in Beijing, according to Xinhua.