In a signed statement faxed to media late Wednesday, Maoist leader Prachanda has said his group has agreed to a ceasefire and will begin negotiations.
He said in the statement the government had agreed to the Maoists pre-conditions for talks which included de-listing the Maoists as terrorists, lifting the Red Corner notice from Interpol, formation of an interim government and halting of all offensives. The government has also taken back the price on the head of key Maoist leaders, the statement added.
The cabinet had met till midnight Tuesday while mediating ministers went back and forth to meet Maoist leaders who were said to be in Kathmandu. However the expected announcement did not take place on Tuesday, and the cabinet waited all day Wednesday for the Maoists announcement which was made through this statement.
The government one hour later Wednesday evening confirmed that a ceasefire with the Maoists had been agreed upon and that Narayan Singh Pun, Minister for Physical Planning is the coordinator from their side.