Nepal celebrates peace accord

Kathmandu, Nov 22 (UNI) People from all walks of life have welcomed the end of over a decade-long conflict in Nepal, which claimed over 13,000 lives, with the signing of comprehensive peace accord between the government and the Maoists.

Nepal's government and the Maoists struggling to end monarchy in the Himalayan nation signed the peace accord yesterday declaring the end of insurgency.

After signing the agreement, Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala said, "We have left behind the politics of violence, killings and murder, and entered reconciliation", adding "The historical agreement has provided a new model of conflict resolution to the world. The agreement has surprised everybody".

Chairman of the CPI (Maoist) Prachand said "the agreement put an end not only to the 11-year long armed struggle, but also to the continuation of the 238-year old monarchy." "It is the victory of Nepali people who wanted to see a new Nepal and defeat of the reactionary forces which always suppressed the Nepali people and their aspirations," he said.

"This historic agreement has not only presented an unprecedented example to the world but has also helped fulfill the desire of the people to restore lasting peace and stability," General Secretary of the CPN, UML is reported to have said.

The government of Nepal has declared a public holiday today to mark the signing of the comprehensive peace agreement declaring the end of the insurgency.

The government has decided to celebrate Deepawali in government offices this evening. It has also urged people to celebrate the day like Deepawali. Reports of celebration of the agreement are coming in from various parts of the country.

Meanwhile, India, US and UN have welcomed the peace accord.

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