The Nepalese government, currently observing a mutual ceasefire with Maoists, on Wednesday announced that peace talks with the rebels would begin in mid-March.

"The government is currently doing home work to move ahead with the peace process," Minister for Housing, Planning and Construction Narayansingh Pun, who is the chief government negotiator, said in Kathmandu.

The Maoists and the government will discuss the procedure of the talks in the second phase, followed by peace talks in which political parties and eminent members of the society will also participate, a private radio station, quoting Pun, said.

"The code of conduct has been finalised and it will be made public in a few days," the chief government negotiator said.