Tuareg and Arab Rebels in Mali Announce Suspension of Peace Negotiations

Government unwilling to discuss Azawad autonomy

OUAGADOUGOU: Tuareg and Arab rebels, who control northern Mali, announced on Thursday the suspension of negotiations with the Bamako government, dealing a blow to hopes of a durable peace.

The central issue is the future status of northern Mali, which the Tuareg movements call "Azawad." The rebels are seeking autonomy, something the central government is unwilling to discuss.