SECRETARY-GENERAL VOICES HOPE FOR MEASURES TO ACHIEVE PEACE IN NEPAL

SECRETARY-GENERAL VOICES HOPE FOR MEASURES TO ACHIEVE PEACE IN NEPAL

The following statement was issued on 5 September by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General has taken note of the appeal addressed to him by a large number of non-governmental and civil society representatives in Nepal requesting his good offices to help find a peaceful solution to the conflict there.  The appeal reflects the deep desire of the people of Nepal to see an urgent end to the conflict that has brought them profound suffering.  The Secretary-General has made known to all interested parties his availability to help in the search for a solution.

The Secretary-General has further learned of the decision of the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) to declare a ceasefire for a period of three months.  On numerous occasions, he has urged an end to hostilities and the initiation of an inclusive national dialogue in Nepal with a view to resolving the underlying causes of conflict.  The Secretary-General earnestly hopes that all sides in Nepal will take all measures which will lead to peace talks and the lasting peace that the people of Nepal crave and deserve.

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For information media • not an official record