Wednesday, November 23 2005 15:15 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Kathmandu: Nepal's Maoists and seven-party alliance have decided to work together to end King Gyanendra's absolute monarchy, hold constituent assembly elections and establish full-fledged democracy in the Himalayan Kingdom, according to a 12-point "far-reaching agreement" announced today (Nov 23, 2005).

"The country has demanded a peaceful resolution of the armed conflict, therefore, we agree to conduct free and fair election to the constituent assembly under supervision of United Nations or any other reliable international party," the seven parties said in a joint statement.

The Maoists and the seven parties have also agreed to involve any reliable international group in dialogue process. In the joint declaration, the Maoists have expressed commitment to the principle of multiparty democracy and democratic values, including fundamental rights and civil liberty, human rights and rule of law.

The seven parties have expressed commitment to form a powerful all-party government by reinstating the Parliament, initiate dialogue with Maoists and to establish full-fledged democracy by holding constituent assembly election.

Maoists have also simultaneously issued a statement on the same lines, Nepali Congress spokesman Krishna Sitaula said. "This is a far-reaching agreement and this is very important achievement for the people of Nepal," he told PTI.

The alliance and the Maoists have agreed to sort out any problems through the dialogue, the statement of the seven parties said.

Nepali Congress leader Girija Prasad Koirala, however, said the two sides will not launch the joint movement until the Maoists surrender their arms.