Kathmandu - The Maoist-led Nepalese government Wednesday hailed the victory of Barack Obama in the US presidential election, describing it as a positive change that hopefully will lead to improved bilateral ties.

In a message, Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, alias Prachanda, said he hoped the change in US leadership would lead to improved bilateral relations between the two countries.

"This moment of positive change will, I hope, be the occasion to start anew in our bilateral relationship as Nepal today seeks peace and friendly ties with all countries, particularly the United States," Dahal said.

Dahal said he along with the people of Nepal shared the joy of victory, celebrating the beginning of a new era in the political history of the US.

"I pledge to work together with you on all issues of international, regional and bilateral concerns to achieve our common goals of peace, progress and prosperity around the world," Dahal said.

Dahal, a former Maoist rebel leader, was elected prime minister following a sweeping Maoist victory in April elections. His party still remains on the US list of terrorist organizations.

Maoist attempts to lobby for its removal from the list have so far failed.

The Maoists were included in the US blacklist in 2002 after the Nepalese government's move to declare the Maoists a terrorist organization.

The Bush administration provided money, weapons and military training to Nepalese army in its drive to crush the rebellion.

The Maoist rebels were strongly anti-American during the insurgency and prevented some American-funded development projects in Nepal. (dpa)