2/6/2015 - 20:27 GMT |
The UN Security Council on Friday urged Islamist rebels and pro-government fighters in restive northern Mali to resume peace talks in Algeria "without delay," warning of "targeted sanctions" if hostilities continue.
"The Security Council urges the parties to seize the historic opportunity offered by the inter-Malian negotiation process in Algiers, in which all neighboring countries and relevant regional and international partners are involved, to support lasting peace in Mali," the Council said in a unanimous statement.
"The Security Council urges all parties to refrain from any action, whether direct or conducted through proxies, that jeopardizes prospects for peace and, in this regard, expresses its readiness to consider appropriate measures, including targeted sanctions, against those who resume hostilities and violate the ceasefire."
It called for a "durable peace agreement."
Mali has been riven by more than a month of violence, as Islamist Tuareg separatists wage a battle for an independent homeland.
Algeria and the UN, which are leading mediation talks between the government and rebels, fear the violence in the north will jeopardize the peace process. The talks have been underway since July.
"Only a comprehensive and inclusive peace agreement can bring lasting security to Mali," the Council said.
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