Sunday, December 11 2005 17:29 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Kathmandu: India's concerns regarding restoration of democracy in Nepal is expected to figure in talks Foreign Secretary Shyam Saran will be having with officials of the royal government as also the leaders of the seven-party alliance fighting King Gyanendra's rule.

Saran, who arrived here today (Dec 11, 2005) on a three-day official visit, will meet senior officials of the royal government and leaders of the seven-party alliance for restoration of democracy, said sources at the Indian Embassy here.

The former Indian ambassador to Nepal, leading a four-member delegation, is also expected to call on King Gyanendra.

During his meeting with Nepalese officials, a wide range of bilateral issues as well as multilateral matters will be discussed, the sources said.

As India is pressing Nepal's Royal government for early restoration of democracy and civil rights, during his talks with Nepalese officials India's concern for restoration of democracy is also expected to figure, sources said.

Saran will meet Nepalese Foreign Minister Ramesh Nath Pandey at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at Sheetalniwas tomorrow.

He is also expected to meet King Gyanendra at the Narayanhiti Royal Palace on Tuesday before leaving for Delhi.

Saran will meet vice-chairmen of the Council of Ministers Tulasi Giri and Kirtinidhi Bista and some senior journalists.

This is Saran's first visit to Nepal in the capacity of the Foreign Secretary of India.