Nepalese Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal on Wednesday hoped that the new constitution can be drafted within the stipulated time as the Maoists are now "positive" like other parties on the issue.
"As the Maoists are positive like other political parties towards the issue (drafting of
constitution), I am confident that the constitution will be ready within the stipulated time," he told reporters in Udayapur district.
The task of drafting the constitution and concluding the peace process will be completed within the stipulated time, he said.
Nepal's comments assume significance in the wake of widespread speculation that the new Constitution may not be drafted by May 28, 2010 deadline.
The Prime Minister also said the task of managing Maoists combatants will be completed before drafting the constitution.
"The government is serious about maintaining law and order in the country," he said.
Meanwhile, United Nations deputy Secretary-General B Lynn Pascoe, who arrived here today to assess the situation in the country, said the peace process has reached a "crucial phase". (MORE)