Martin Special Representative of Annan in Nepal

Kathmandu, Aug 30: United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan has appointed Ian Martin as his Special Representative to monitor and facilitate the peace process in Nepal.

Mr Martin, who was the chief of the UN Human Rights OHCHR in Nepal since the take over by the king, presented the letter of credence to Nepal Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala yesterday.

Mr Koirala and Mr Martin discussed implementation of the five-point agreement reached between the government and the Maoists, the Prime Minister's office said after the presentation of the letter of credence.

Nepal government and the Maoists have signed an agreement to forward peace process and hold the election of the constituent assembly under the supervision of the UN.

The UN will monitor the peace process and work for the management of arms in Nepal.

"In his announcement of my appointment, the Secretary General has again expressed his firm commitment to support the peace process in Nepal. But the role of the United Nations is just to support a peace process, which has been demanded by the Nepalese and led by the Nepalese," Mr Martin said in a statement issued here today.

"Nothing can substitute for the leadership that is required of those who must make peace. I can only offer my best efforts in responding to their requests for assistance," he added.

Mr Martin said he would work with the Government and the Maoists, as well as other key national interlocutors, to help move the peace process in the various areas requested.

"I will be assisted by a small team of advisers relating to these areas of assistance, including monitoring the ceasefire Code of Conduct, the management of arms and armed personnel of both sides and the election of the Constituent Assembly," he said.

UNI

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