NEPAL: TRAVEL ADVICE AMENDED (04/05/06)

The Foreign Office today revised its travel advice for Nepal. We are no longer advising against all but essential travel in Nepal.

The relevant points in the summary now read:

'On 24 April 2006, following a programme of nationwide political demonstrations and street agitation since 6 April 2006 by the political parties and the Maoists, the King announced the reinstatement of parliament. Following the King's announcement the political parties called off their general strike. All curfews have now been lifted, supplies of food and fuel have largely returned to normal, transport has resumed and roads and shops have opened.

'While the Maoists initially rejected the King's address, on 26 April 2006, they called off their blockade and announced a three-month unilateral ceasefire. This has not yet been reciprocated by the Royal Nepalese Army.

'Although the situation in Kathmandu has improved, the security situation remains uncertain and could change rapidly. We advise you to remain vigilant and avoid any demonstrations and large gatherings. We will continue to keep this advice under close review.'

Notes to Editors

1. We previously advised against all but essential travel to Nepal. Although the situation in Kathmandu continues to improve slowly, the security situation remains unpredictable. We will keep this advice under close review.
2. On 24 April 2006, following a programme of nationwide political demonstrations and street agitation since 6 April 2006 by the political parties and the Maoists, the King announced the reinstatement of the parliament. Following the King's announcement the political parties called off their general strike. While the Maoists initially rejected the King's address, they subsequently called off their blockade of the main highways pending the first session of the reinstated Parliament on 28 April 2006, and an announcement of whether further of their demands will be met. On 26 April 2006, they announced a three-month unilateral ceasefire.
3. The Royal Government has now lifted all curfews and bans on public gatherings. However, violent flashpoints could still occur at any time and you should avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings.
4. FCO Travel Advice can also be obtained on the following telephone number: 0845 850 2829.
5. FCO Travel Advice is kept under constant review. This advice is based on our latest assessment of the situation in Nepal.