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UN chief welcomes dialogue resumption between Burundian stakeholders

Xinhua, January 1, 2016 Adjust font size:

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Thursday welcomed the resumption of dialogue between stakeholders of Burundi, urging them to engage constructively in the process to address political challenges facing the country.

Peace talks aimed at ending fighting in Burundi resumed in Entebbe, Uganda on Monday after a five-month's lull. The talks are held under the auspices of the East African Community, a regional bloc bringing together Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Kenya and Tanzania.

In a statement released by his spokesperson, Ban welcomed all efforts by Burundi's partners to help defuse tensions and bring about a sustainable political solution to the current crisis, while reiterating his appeal to the Burundian political leaders to "place peace and national reconciliation above partisan interests."

"The current crisis can only be resolved through a credible and inclusive political dialogue based on respect for the Arusha Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation and the Constitution of Burundi," said the statement.

Violence broke out in Burundi in April after President Pierre Nkurunziza announced his bid for a third term. His controversial re-election in July fomented massive protests, leaving more than 240 dead in clashes. More than 200,000 civilians have fled to neighboring countries amid crisis. Enditem