UN Exploring peace roles in Nepalese Crisis

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UN explores role in Nepal peace

Mr Tamrat (left) met Deputy Premier KP Oli on Sunday

A senior UN official has begun talks with senior Nepalese officials to explore a possible UN role in the country's proposed peace process.

Officials say peace talks will begin "very soon" between the government and Nepal's Maoist rebels.

Samuel Tamrat, a senior official in the UN's political affairs department is currently on a 10-day visit to Nepal.

A new government took office last month after the king ended his direct rule following weeks of mass protests.

On Sunday, Mr Tamrat called on Deputy Prime Minister KP Oli, who also looks after the foreign affairs portfolio.

He also met senior leaders of the ruling Seven Party Alliance (SPA), Madhav Kumar Nepal, and Ram Chandra Poudel.

Mr Tamrat told journalists that the United Nations was ready to offer any help sought by Nepal to restore peace in the country.

But he said it was too early to talk about a possible UN role in managing the rebels' arms.

Ceasefire

Mr Tamrat's visit to Nepal coincides with the declaration of ceasefire by both the SPA government and Maoist rebels.

The UN could play a role in disarming the rebels

Nepal's parliament was reinstated last month by King Gyanendra following weeks of nationwide protests and general strikes.

It has since adopted a resolution to hold elections for a constituent assembly to draft a new constitution - one of the key demands of the Maoist rebels.

Analysts say laying down arms and demobilisation of the Maoist rebels are going to be sensitive issues where the role of the United Nations could be important.

But they say the Nepal government is least likely to invite the UN directly to mediate or facilitate in the peace process without the consent of two of its giant neighbours - India and China.

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