FNCCI for ceasefire

KATHMANDU: The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) has welcomed the announcement of unilateral ceasefire by CPN-Maoists. The Maoists president Prachanda today declared a three month long ceasefire with an immediate effect. Issuing a press release, FNCCI has urged to make this ceasefire a permanent one, in order to restore sustainable peace and security in the country. — HNS

Gold price goes up

KATHMANDU: The price of gold in the local market witnessed a minor fluctuation this week. Trading in precious yellow metal opened with a price tag of Rs 10,230 per 10 gram on Sunday

lowered to Rs 10,200 on Wed-nesday and again increased to Rs 10,320 per 10 gram on Friday. According to Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the depreciation of dollar value due to the cyclone in the US led to increase in gold prices in the international market. The price of silver remained constant at Rs 178.50 per 10 gram in the market. — HNS

India, B’desh pipeline

DHAKA: Bangladesh Saturday said it was awaiting the visit of Indian petroleum minister Mani Shankar Aiyar to confirm New Delhi’s position on reports that India was considering abandoning the tri-nation gas pipeline project involving Myanmar. “We’re not aware of such developments in New Delhi as reported in the Indian media. We’re waiting for the visit of Mani Shankar Aiyar and we’ll hear from him India’s position,” Mahmudur Rahman, adviser to the energy ministry said. — HNS