US takes Nepali Maoists off terror blacklist

In a decision that may give Nepali Maoists greater credence, the US has taken the Unified Communist Party of Nepal-Maoists off the list of terrorist organisations. The decision comes six years after the Maoists joined the peace process.

The US decision is a recognition of the fact that the Maoists have demonstrated credible commitment to pursuing peace and reconciliation in Nepal.

In a statement issued in Washington, the US Department of State announced late Thursday that the Maoists were no more on their terror list. "After a thorough review, the Department has determined that the CPN (M) is no longer engaged in terrorist activity that threatens the security of US nationals or US foreign policy," the State Department said. "With these actions, the CPN (M)'s property and interests in property in the US or within the possession or control of US persons will no longer be blocked," it said. The Maoists had been put on the list in October 2003.

ALSO READ

LeJ, death squads loom over Baloch polls

Pak prosecutor handling 26/11 attack, Bhutto assassination cases shot dead

Veteran BBC sportscaster Stuart Hall admits 14 indecent assaults

Indian-origin widow 'in bits' over husband's mystery death