Statement Attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on Nepal

The Secretary-General warmly welcomes the announcement of a cease-fire yesterday by the His Majesty's Government of Nepal and the forces belonging to the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) and the Government's intention to convene all-party talks. He 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.

The Secretary-General wishes to reiterate his readiness to provide assistance from the United Nations system in sustaining a process of national reconciliation and reform in Nepal.