Personal representatives of the United Nations (UN) secretary-general Kofi Annan to Nepal, Ian Martin, has said that the UN is here only to assist and monitor the peace process not to resolve the political problems.

Ian Martin, the personal representative of UN Secretary-General for monitoring in Nepal’s peace process, speaks to journalists during a press briefing at the UN House, Kathmandu, Monday. nepalnews.com/rh

Speaking at an interaction organized by Nepal Bar Association in the Capital on Wednesday, Martin said, “Nepalis themselves should act to solve their political problems and the major political parties should play important role in this regard.”

Martin also urged parties concerned to address political problems so that the UN can assist in the technical aspects of the peace process.

Maoists also called for signing the Human Rights and Peace agreement and extensive Ceasefire agreement for the restoration of peace in the country, adding, “The UN can expedite the peace process based on such agreements.”

”Management of Maoist combatants and the Nepali Army is crucial for the resolution of the crisis,” he added.

He also called the lawyers and their umbrella organisation, Nepal Bar Association to help the UN for the process.

Speaking at the programme, president of the Nepal Bar Association Shambhu Thapa, senior advocates Bishwokanta Mainali, Krishna Prasad Bhandari and Indrajit Tiwari assured Martin that the lawyers’ body would assist the UN in the peace process.