Wednesday, May 3 2006 14:04 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Kathmandu: United States today (May 3, 2006) said it will not remove Nepal's Maoist rebels from its list of terrorist organisations unless they lay down arms and join peaceful political process.

"What they said is not important. They have to change their behaviour," US Assistant Secretary of State for South Asia Richard Boucher told reporters here after meeting Nepalese Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala and other political leaders of the kingdom. "In the past, they have killed people, abducted them and extorted money even during ceasefire. So until they stop doing such things we are not going to review our stand," he said.

The Maoists can also participate in the political process if they lay down arms and abandon violence, he said adding, the US government can do everything it can to support political leaders and people of Nepal in building the country.

Boucher said as during the process for restoration of democracy, the US would continue to work in close coordination with India to build peaceful and prosperous Nepal.

"We need to work in close coordination with other countries, particularly India, as we did, to move ahead with Nepal's political process and economic development," he said.

Asked whether US prefers a republican state or ceremonial King, he said it is upto the people and political leadership of the country to decide.

Boucher, who spent less than 20 hours in Nepal, said hecould not meet King Gyanendra due to paucity of time.

Regarding resumption of arms supply to Royal Nepalese Army, he said, it depends upon the demand of the government of Nepal.