Mali keen on peace deal

Rival factions in Mali are willing to implement a peace deal signed last year according to a United Nations Security Council delegation.

During a visit by representatives of the 15 member body to the West African nation, it was revealed that armed rebels and the Malian government are committed to end years of conflict.

France’s ambassador to the United Nations François Delattre said: ‘‘As the other members of the delegation of the United Nations, I have found during our discussions with all the parties a real willingness to make peace and it is important.”

The delegation met with several Malian authorities, including the President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita. They met with government officials and religious leaders on Saturday and had talks with representatives of the armed groups the following day.

Delays in implementing the peace deal has led to the strengthening of Jihadists. Islamist militants backed by Al Qaeda still represent the main threat, carrying out a series of attacks.

The government and the Tuareg rebel alliance, Coordination of Azawad Movements (CMA), have often accused each other of obstructing the peace deal.

The UN sent peacekeepers to the country in 2013 to guard against militants.