Dec 16 (Reuters) - Nepal's ruling alliance and Maoist rebels approved the draft of an interim constitution on Saturday, a key step to implement their landmark peace deal ending a decade-long conflict. Here is a chronology of key events in Nepal this year: April 24, 2006 - King Gyanendra announces will reinstate Nepal's dissolved parliament, prompting political parties to call off mass protests. April 27 - Maoists declare ceasefire and political parties promise to work with them. April 28 - Parliament reopens. April 30 - Veteran politician Girija Prasad Koirala is sworn in as prime minister. Parliament approves a proposal to hold elections to a special assembly to draw up a constitution. May 4 - Maoist rebels welcome ceasefire announced by the new government and agree to join talks. May 18 - Parliament curtails powers of king drastically and takes away his control over army and declares that Nepal is no longer a Hindu kingdom but a secular country. June 16 - Koirala holds talks with Maoist rebel leader Prachanda and agrees to dissolve parliament and set up an interim administration to include the rebels. Maoists promise to dissolve their parallel governments. Aug 9 - Maoists and government agree arms will be confined to one set of camps while government troops will be stationed in barracks. Oct 30 - Government appoints retired bureaucrat as chief election commissioner, a first step towards holding elections. Nov 20 - Government and Maoist rebels sign landmark peace accord marking end of civil war. Dec 16 - Nepal's seven ruling parties and Maoist former rebels approve draft of interim constitution. Source: Reuters;
