High level talks b/w 7 parties-Nepal Maoists begin

Kathmandu, Oct 8: The high level talks between Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala and Maoist chairman Prachanda has begun at Prime Minister's residence Baluwatar today to finalise the contentious issues between the government and the rebels.

Senior leaders of the seven parties and the Maoists have been taking part in the meeting which is expected to discuss the issue of interim constitution finalising the date for the constituent assembly election and management of the arms.

The issue of future of the monarchy and management of arms have been the contentious issues between the government and the Maoists, the leaders said.

This is the second high level talk held between the government and the Maoists. However the leaders of the seven parties government and the rebels have held talks separately since the first round of talks in June this year.

The government and the Maoists have agreed to hold the election of the constituent assembly managing the arms under the supervision of United Nations.

The seven parties and the Maoists rebels had for the first time signed a 12 point agreement to establish democracy and end autocratic rule in November last year.

Nepal's parliament, restored through the Popular Movement launched by seven parties and the Maoists, have made drastic changes in state affairs including bringing the army under the control of the government, disconnecting the links of the army to the palace and cutting down the power of the king.

UNI

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