Monday, September 18 2006 11:56 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Kathmandu: Arms management, finalisation of an interim Constitution and implementation of the code of conduct agreed upon by the Maoists figured in talks between Nepal Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala and rebel chief Prachanda here yesterday (Sept 17, 2006).

The two leaders also discussed during two-hour-long meeting, held at the Prime Minister's residence in Baluwatar, matters relating to convening of the second round of 'Summit Talks' between the Seven-Party Alliance Government and the Maoists before the commencement of the Hindu festival Vijaya Dashami.

"The meeting was instrumental in clearing the cloud of mistrust between the SPA and the Maoists," Nepali Congress central member Sekhar Koirala said.

"Various issues including modalities of holding constituent assembly elections, position of the King in the interim Constitution and management of arms and the armies, were discussed," he said.

Koirala has also asked the Maoist leadership to follow the code of conduct agreed on, in the wake of reports of continued extortion by them.

Second in rank leader Baburam Bhattarai and Home Minister Krishna Prasad Sitaula were also present at the meeting.