A ceasefire deal has been signed in Mali with Tuareg separatist insurgents, allowing government troops to return to the last rebel-held town ahead of presidential elections next month.
Mali's minister of communication told the Guardian:
Mali's minister of communication told the Guardian:
"This agreement is very important for the future Mali. It allows for the strengthening of the Malian state"
"But it is a preliminary agreement, and it is important to note that the agreement recognises the territorial integrity of Mali, and provides for disarmament of rebel groups. This is the in best interest of the nation."