EMBASSY ISSUES PRESS RELEASE WARNING AGAINST

UNCLAS KATHMANDU 002390 SIPDIS DEPT FOR SA/INS, SA/PPD (SCHWARTZ, SCENSNY, ROGERS) E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREL PGOV PTER OPRC KPAO NP SUBJECT: EMBASSY ISSUES PRESS RELEASE WARNING AGAINST MAOISTS-PARTIES "ALLIANCE" REF(S): KATHMANDU 2384 (NOTAL) KATHMANDU 2388 (NOTAL) ¶1. On November 4, the Embassy issued the following press release in both English and Nepali, as discussed reftels. Text of Press Release: Embassy Warns Against Maoists-Parties "Alliance" The U.S. Embassy notes with alarm recent reports in Nepal media on the emerging potential for an "alliance" between one or more of the major political parties and the Maoist rebels. The United States notes that the parties in the past have said that they would not enter into any formal relationship with the Maoists, unless and until the Maoists firmly renounce violence, put down their weapons, and commit to supporting the democratic process. Despite declaring a three-month ceasefire in September, the Maoists have done nothing to indicate that they are prepared to abandon violence in the long term, and abductions and extortion continue unabated. The United States, which supports the restoration of democracy in Nepal and the prevention of a Maoist takeover, believes the best way to reach these goals is through unity of Nepal's legitimate political forces - the political parties and the monarchy. We urge both to re-establish an effective working relationship to lead Nepal out of its current crisis, and to work toward a democratic and peaceful future for the country and its people. We hope that the Maoists will enter into peace negotiations with the government in good faith, abandon their weapons, and come into the political mainstream. Until these steps are taken, the Maoists cannot be treated as a legitimate political party. End text of Press Release. MORIARTY