Mediators say peace talks proceeding in Arusha

Burundi peace talks are proceeding in Arusha, contrary to media reports that the Burundi government had sought a delay, mediators from the Nyerere Foundation told IRIN on Tuesday. "We are not aware of any request by the government for the talks to be delayed," Nyerere Foundation official Mark Bomani said. He confirmed the talks began on Monday between the 18 elegations which attended the last round. He said he was hopeful the four negotiating committees would finalise the documents which are to be presented to a plenary session for perusal, "then later the peace deal document can be prepared and signed". "We are hopeful all these will be finalised by the end of the year," he added. Meanwhile, the World Bank and European Union on Monday outlined the nature of assistance they would give Burundi if a "peace agreement has been reached". Bomani said the two organisations pledged humanitarian and developmental support. The Hirondelle news agency quoted World Bank representatives as urging the negotiators to achieve a peace agreement without delay "if they really need support, as the situation in Burundi is worrying". According to Hirondelle, the European Union announced it would contribute one and a half million euro for the peace process and 48 million euro for social and economic rehabilitation.