The CPN (Maoist) has pledged to cooperate with the United Nations and other international development agencies operating in Nepal, expressing ‘appreciation’ to their Basic Operating Guidelines.

Issuing a press statement Thursday, Maoist chairman Prachanda said, “We appreciate in principle the Basic operating Guidelines of the United Nations and other development agencies & organizations operating in Nepal and have instructed cadres and local people’s representatives to cooperate with it as per the specific situation of the place.”

The Maoist chairman’s explanation comes amidst complaints from various international development agencies and local NGOs about extortion of money, mistreatment of development workers and forceful closure of projects in the districts.

Months earlier, major donor agencies including the UN had publicised their Basic operating Guidelines, opposing the Maoist pressure. A number projects have already closed down following Maoist intervention.

The Maoist supremo in his statement urged the international community to consult and coordinate with his party at the central and the local level while carrying out their programs.

“We also appeal to the international community and development agencies to work in regular consultation and cooperation with our party and new people’s representations at the central and local level to execute the development programs in keeping with the current civil war situation in the country.”