Malian delegation in Algiers to discuss peace agreement

A Malian government delegation led by Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop visited Algiers over the weekend to discuss ways to implement the Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali which was signed on May 15, 2015, an official source has said.

The Deputy Special Representative in the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) Arnauld Akodjenou said the Algiers meeting was not "a reopening of dialogue."

"It is meant to discuss ways to implement the agreement and this has to be spearheaded by the Malian government, others will just follow," Akodjenou said.

Diplomatic sources told Xinhua that the Algiers meeting will discuss the necessary preparations for the establishment of an international committee to follow-up the implementation of the agreement.

The Coordination of Azawad Movements (CMA, a grouping of rebel movements in Northern Mali) which has not yet signed the final document, is taking part in the Algiers meeting, the same source said.

A statement issued by MINUSMA indicated that the Algiers talks will allow participants to discuss ways to completely end hostilities in Northern Mali.

Mediators in the Malian crisis have expressed concern over persistent clashes in total violation of the cease-fire agreements and deplored the continued suffering that these clashes have subjected many innocent civilians to, the UN Mission statement said.

The mediators have urged all parties to demonstrate their commitment for peace in a manner that will create a climate of confidence that is necessary for the success of the ongoing peace and reconciliation process, it concluded. Endi