King Gyanendra appreciaties peace accord

Kathmandu, Nov 22 (UNI) King Gyanendra has welcomed the comprehensive peace agreement signed between the government and the Maoists yesterday.

''The king was pleased that a peace agreement had been concluded in keeping with the nation's need and people's aspirations,'' Royal Palace said in a statement issued here today.

''His Majesty appreciates the contributions of all those involved in bringing to an end bloodshed, violence and terrorism through the peace accord and hopes that, by ensuring sustainable peace, a prosperous Nepal can now be built with the collective efforts of all Nepalese people through multi-party democracy,'' the statement added.

King Gyanendra was forced to give up direct rule following the movement launched by seven parties and the Maoists in April.

The dissolved house of Parliament cut down the power of the king and limited him as the ceremonial head and disconnected his link with the Nepal Army.

The government and the Maoists have agreed to decide the fate of the monarchy by the first meeting of the Constituent Assembly election.

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