Nepal, US agree on fighting terrorism

KATHMANDU, Tuesday (Xinhua) - Nepal and the United States have developed further understanding on fighting terrorism, a senior Nepali government official said here after meeting with a visiting US official.

"We explained the present situation of the country and heard her views. The meeting went well," Vice-chairman of Council of Ministers Kirti Nidhi Bista told reporters Monday night after meeting with US Assistant Secretary of State for South Asia Affairs Christina Rocca.

"Our view is that the United States should understand the present situation in Nepal. They know more about terrorism and terrorist activities. From this viewpoint, we are hopeful that they will cooperate with us," Bista said.

Bista, however, refused to comment on the proposed assumption of US military assistance to Nepal. "It all depends on the United States. If they wish, they will provide the assistance," he added.

Meanwhile at least five security men and a civilian were killed and dozens of policemen were reported missing in attacks by anti-government guerrillas at four separate security bases in eastern Nepal, security official said here Tuesday.

"Separate group of armed insurgents attacked joint security bases at Choharwa and Bandipur and a police post at Mirchaiya in Siraha district and a army barrack in Dharapani area of Dhanusha district from late Monday," the security official said on condition of anonymity.

Five policemen including an assistant sub-inspector of police died during the fighting and over 30 policemen were reported as missing from Mirchaiya police post by Tuesday morning, he noted, adding, "There were reports of clashes until early Tuesday morning."