United Nations, Aug 30: UN Secretary General Kofi Annan has said he was "deeply concerned" at the breakdown in Nepal's ceasefire and the upsurge in violence, and called on Maoist rebels to resume talks. In a statement made through a spokesman yesterday, the Secretary General said he remained "convinced that there is no alternative to the continuation of dialogue and a peaceful solution to the conflict." "The Secretary-General urges all concerned, in particular the insurgents belonging to the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist), to return to the negotiating table," the statement said.

"He reminds the parties of their responsibilities to protect civilians and abide by International Humanitarian Law." Maoist rebels announced Wednesday the end of the ceasefire declared on January 29 due to the government's refusal to accept their main demands relating to the convocation of a constituent assembly.

Rebel activists on Thursday launched two attacks in Kathmandu against two Nepalese Army Colonels. One was killed and the other seriously wounded in the attacks.

Bureau Report