The U.N. Pushes The Implementation Of A Peace Deal In Mali

Reuters: U.N. Security Council pushes peace deal implementation in Mali

The United Nations Security Council traveled to northern Mali on Saturday to push for implementation of a fragile peace deal aimed at ending a cycle of internal uprisings and allowing the government to combat the growing threat of Islamist militants.

Tuareg rebels demanding autonomy for their northern homeland, the government and pro-Bamako militias signed the U.N.-backed accord last year, pledging to end decades of hostilities.

Political analysts, however, say confidence has steadily eroded, slowing peace initiatives on the ground. The government and the Tuareg rebel alliance - Coordination of Azawad Movements (CMA) - have accused each other of stalling on implementation.

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Update #1: UN Security Council arrives in Mali, vows to support country during 'key moment' in history -- UN News Centre
Update #2: UN Security Council urges adoption of Mali peace deal -- AFP

WNU Editor: The push for peace has not stopped the war .... Ansar Dine claims four attacks in Mali (Threat Matrix). More here .... Mali Officials Ask for Air Support to Combat Jihadis (AP).