Visiting British minister Gareth Thomas said Monday that the formation of the interim government was a significant step down the path to lasting peace in Nepal.

Upon his arrival in Kathmandu on a three-day visit, the British international development minister said, "The formation of the interim government is a huge opportunity, but significant challenges remain," adding, "Key legislation needs to be passed for elections to be held later this year, and civil unrest may not end overnight."

He urged all the political parties to focus on making the elections peaceful and credible, "as Nepal looks towards a future without violence."

The British minister also said that British stands ready to support the people of Nepal to build an effective, inclusive and accountable state for the Nepalese.

Source: Xinhua