Talks between government and the Maoists begin in Kathmandu

Kathmandu, May 26 (UNI) The first round of talks between the government and the Maoist rebels began here today with both the sides expressed their optimism and willingness to make them a success.

The three-member government team is led by Home Minister Krishna Sitaula, while Maoist spokesman Krishna Bahadur is heading the insurgents The talks began at Gokarna Resort, on the outskirt of the capital this afternoon.

''We are hopeful that talks will be successful,'' Mahara said before the talks, while Mr Sitaula said since the agenda of both the sides are same, the talks will be successful.

The Parliament has approved a resolution to hold elections to the constituent Assembly, the main demand of the rebels.

This is the first round of talks held between the government and the Maoists since the House was reinstated at the height of the popular movement last month.

Two rounds of talks were held between the Maoists and the government in 2002 and 2003. However, the talks failed as the then government refused to even discuss the issue of constituent assembly.

The Maoists and the seven parties signed an 12-point agreement in November last year agreeing to end the autocratic monarchy and resolving the problem through the elections to a constituent assembly.

Most of the demands of the rebels have been fulfilled following the 'historic political proclamation' endorsed by the House, including bringing the army under the purview of the Parliament and slashing the powers of the king.

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