Agreement between SPA and Maoists welcomed

Kathmandu, Nov 9 (UNI) Following the welcome by India, United Kingdom and Denmark have welcomed the landmark agreement reached between the Seven-Party Alliance and the Maoists.

''The UK congratulates the Government of Nepal and Maoists on their November 8 agreement''British embassy in Kathmandu quoted UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office Minister, Kim Howells as saying.

''This agreement is a significant step towards peace in Nepal. We see it as a demonstration of both sides' commitment to building a stable and peaceful future." the statement said.

Mr Howells added, "We now look to both sides to use the momentum they have created to implement the agreement together.

The UK urges the Government of Nepal and the Maoists to respect and uphold the rule of law, without which any peace agreement will be inherently fragile.

''We welcome the opportunity to continue to support the peace process in a way that is helpful for the people of Nepal." Embassy of Denmark in Kathmandu in a release said that the peace agreement between the SPA government and the Maoists is a decisive and important step towards lasting peace in Nepal.

A central point in the negotiation has been the issue of arms management and the parties have agreed upon a plan and the United Nations will monitor the implementation of the plan, stated the release adding, Denmark has offered to support the UN mission in Nepal.

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