The leaders of the Nepali Congress (NC) and United Democratic Madhesi Front (UDMF) have agreed to form a national unity government within August 21, the dateline given by the President for the political parties, said NC leader and prime minister’s candidate, Sher Bahadur Deuba.

A meeting of the leaders of the NC and Morcha held in Singhadarbar today took such decision.

The parties are busy for holding bilateral and multilateral talks for the formation of a new government after the Prime Minister, Jhala Nath Khanal, tendered his resignation.

The leaders of Morcha had discussed with the leaders of the UCPN (Maoist) on Wednesday in the same issue.

Deuba who was present in the meeting told journalists, “NC should get an opportunity to lead the government for peace and constitution.” NC president, Sushil Koirala, parliamentary party leader, Ram Chandra Poudel, general secretary, Prakash Man Singh, and other leaders were present in the meeting from the NC side.

After the meeting, chairman of UMDF Bijaya Kumar Gachchhadar, said national consensus government was necessary for the cause of peace and constitution and added that the Morcha will extend its support to the NC if the latter forges consensus in the issues.

Meanwhile, the Maoists and the UML also held a meeting regarding formation of a new government.

Talking to media after the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Narayan Kaji Shrestha, said UML is positive to accept the Maoist leadership for the national consensus government.

Shrestha, who is also the Vice chairman of the Maoists, said "The two parties have agreed to settle the current political problems including peace process, statute drafting, power sharing and formation of Truth and Reconciliation Commission in package".

Similarly, UML leader Bhim Bahadur Rawal stressed for the national consensus and said if the Maoists agree to some issues for peace process, his party is ready to accept the Maoist leadership for the national consensus government.

Rawal said the two parties will again hold talks on Friday over the issues such as modality, numbers, and ranking for the Army integration.