Nepal talks fixed for 8 October

The rebels have differed with the government over giving up arms

Nepalese Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala and top Maoist leader Prachanda will hold summit-level talks on 8 October, the two sides say.

The announcement came after the two men met informally on Thursday, the original date for the summit which was put back to allow for more "homework".

The BBC's Sushil Sharma in Kathmandu says much hope is pinned on the talks but there remain many differences.

A ceasefire was declared after mass protests ended palace rule in April.

Differences

The joint statement issued in the capital, Kathmandu, on Thursday said: "The two sides have decided to hold the summit meeting between their leaders on 8 October.

"They have also agreed to take the ongoing talks forward to an early conclusion."

Peace talks began after the two sides agreed the April truce.

But they have been stalled in recent weeks over issues such as the management of weapons and the future of the monarchy.

The rebels say they are willing to hold "substantive" peace talks but refuse to give up arms and want the monarchy to be scrapped.

For its part, the government insists that the rebels disarm before they join the government.

The prime minister has also spoken in favour of a ceremonial monarchy until a constituent assembly is elected next year which will decide the fate of the monarchy.

Most of King Gyanendra's powers and privileges have been stripped since his direct rule ended in April.