June 26 , 2006

The much-awaited peace negotiations between the government and the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) were at the deluxe Le Meridian Resort at Gokarna, near the capital city of Kathmandu, on May 26, 2006. The two sides signed a 25-point code of conduct to be observed during the negotiation period.
The agreement was jointly signed by Home Minister and leader of the government negotiation team Krishna Prasad Sitaula and Maoist negotiation team coordinator Krishna Bahadur Mahara. As per the agreement, both the sides would cease all types of military activities during the period of ceasefire.
Another important aspect of the agreement is that both the government and the Maoists would not call bandh or transport strike throughout the ceasefire. However, peaceful rallies and meetings will be allowed. Similarly, no obstruction would be created in the movement of medicines, food, construction materials meant for development programmes and goods for daily consumption. Donations would not be collected by means of coercion.
The two sides have also agreed to make public whereabouts of all the disappeared people, help displaced ones to return to their homes and release the detainees gradually. They reached a consensus to involve national and international teams in the process of monitoring the ceasefire.
Both the sides are hopeful that a durable solution would be found through peace talks to the decade-old armed conflict. Peace negotiations would continue and date and venue of second round of talks would be decided through mutual consultation.