South Asian nations seal free trade deal

SEVEN South Asian countries have finalised an agreement to set up a free trade area, the Indian government said Friday, a move predicted to more than double the size of the regional market.

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Maoists extend ceasefire by one month in Nepal

MAOIST insurgents Friday extended a unilateral ceasefire by one month after joining political efforts to restore democracy in Nepal, their leader said. "Despite the provocative attitude of the government forces, our party has decided to extend the ceasefire by one month, taking into account the demands of the national and international communities for democracy," said rebel leader Prachanda.

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