NEW DELHI: India on Friday welcomed the formation of Nepal’s new interim government under Prime Minister Sushila Karki, calling the neighbouring democracy a close partner and pledging continued cooperation.In a statement, the ministry of external affairs said, “We welcome the formation of a new Interim Government in Nepal, led by Right Honourable Mrs Sushila Karki. We are hopeful that this would help in fostering peace and stability.”“As a close neighbour, a fellow democracy and a long term development partner, India will continue to work closely with Nepal for the well-being and prosperity of our two peoples and countries,” it added.Karki was sworn in as Nepal’s interim Prime Minister at a ceremony in Sheetal Niwas, the presidential office, with President Ramchandra Paudel administering the oath. She was chosen days after violent “Gen Z” protests toppled the KP Sharma Oli government.The protests, triggered by a short-lived social media ban, quickly grew into a wider movement against corruption, nepotism and entrenched political elites. Demonstrators torched government buildings, politicians’ homes and even the parliament. Soldiers remain deployed across Kathmandu to maintain order.Also considered for the top post were former Nepal Electricity Authority chief Kulman Ghising, Kathmandu mayor Balendra Shah, and Dharan mayor Harka Sampang.Karki, who made history in 2016 as Nepal’s first female Chief Justice, had a short tenure that ended with her impeachment amid accusations of biased verdicts and interference in the executive’s role.