Ban welcomes 'positive' steps towards ending conflict in northern Niger

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has hailed recent positive developments in Niger, including yesterday’s meeting between President Mamadou Tandja and Tuareg rebel leaders, as part of efforts to end the conflict in the northern part of the country.

“He views these developments as significant and encourages the parties to continue the dialogue in order to resolve all outstanding issues,” Mr. Ban’s spokesperson said in a statement issued today.

“The United Nations stands ready to support such efforts in any ways that the parties would deem appropriate,” the statement added.

According to media reports, the President offered an amnesty if the rebels – who have been fighting for a greater share of Niger’s uranium wealth – laid down their weapons.