The Tuareg rebels of the Movement of Niger People for Justice (MNJ) have committed to a "total and comprehensive peace" deal after two days of talks in the Libyan capital of Tripoli. Current chairman of the African
Union, Col. Muammar Gaddafi, brokered the deal and spokesmen from both sides have released statements in support of reconciliation, despite initial refusal on the part of the Niger government to deal with rebels. Niger's Interior Minister Albedi Abouba said of the talks, "everyone present spoke of their serious commitment and will to reach a peace deal" and leader of the MNJ, Aghali Alambo, also expressed his willingness and desire for a definitive peace in Niger. The only obstacle in the peace deal may be finding an agreement over the future development of uranium mines, which the Tuareg groups want curtailed, as well as a stake in the industry. However the peace deal has now encouraged Tuareg groups across the border in Mali to lay down their arms as well.
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