End of Mali peace deal concerns Algeria

Algeria has expressed its regret and deep concern after the military rulers in neighbouring Mali scrapped a 2015 peace deal with separatist rebels that it had mediated.

Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf warned of a risk to the whole region.

The Algiers accord was meant to see separatist fighters behind a 2012 rebellion in northern Mali integrated into the armed forces.

But it was never fully implemented.

In recent months fighting has resumed between the separatists and the army, which is assisted by Russian mercenaries.

This came after UN peacekeepers and French troops were told to leave the country.

Islamist militant groups are also carrying out frequent attacks in northern Mali.

By BBC