Global perspective Human stories

Annan hails Nepal ceasefire, pledges UN help with national reconciliation

Annan hails Nepal ceasefire, pledges UN help with national reconciliation

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today warmly welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire yesterday by the Government of Nepal and the forces belonging to the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist), as well as the Government's intention to convene all-party talks.

The Secretary-General “is encouraged by these developments, which he hopes will facilitate an early start of talks between the two sides and lead to the peaceful resolution of Nepal's internal conflict,” a statement issued by a UN spokesman said.

The statement also reiterated the Secretary-General’s readiness to provide assistance from the UN system in sustaining a process of national reconciliation and reform in Nepal.