Nepal's new PM invites Maoist rebels for talks

KATHMANDU, Apr 30 (Reuters) Nepal's new Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala today invited Maoist rebels to talks to help bring peace to the troubled Himalayan nation, days after King Gyanendra returned power to political parties.

Koirala's comments in parliament came as he initiated a debate over holding elections for a special assembly to draw up a new constitution that would decide the future of the monarchy.

''I urge the Maoists, who have announced a three-month ceasefire to stop violence now and come for talks immediately,'' said Koirala, who was sworn in as prime minister earlier today.

REUTERS CH PM1728