Nepali Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala Friday expressed the confidence that Nepali Army would protect and promote democratic norms and values.

"It is a matter of satisfaction to have positive initiatives begun for preservation of democracy, respect for human rights and for co-working with the civilian administration in the process of democratization," the prime minister said on the occasion of the Army Day that falls on Feb. 16.

"All Nepali people, including the NA, need to commit to protect sovereignty and national reconciliation on the occasion of Army Day," Koirala said.

Chief of the Army Staff of Nepal Rookmangud Katawal stressed the need for conceptual and organizational changes in the army.

Expressing commitment to the democratic norms and values, Katawal reiterated Nepali Army's commitment to safeguarding national and international humanitarian laws, rule of law and to its political image.

Source: Xinhua