Nepal has invited the United Nations to monitor weapons held by Maoists rebels and government troops ahead of elections for an assembly that aims to map the nation's political future.
A letter from Prime Minister, Girija Prasad Koirala, to the UN's Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, seeking UN help, was handed over at the world body's office in Kathmandu yesterday.
Monitoring arms is seen as crucial to a free and fair vote as the guerrillas control large swathes of the Himalayan nation and are known to enforce their writ through threats.
