that this problem could be solved through dialogue, a political dialogue. I think that political dialogue is important and necessary. I don’t think that power will solve the problem,” Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Hamad bin Jassem Al-Thani told reporters.
He said the Mali problem should be “discussed between neighbouring countries, the African Union and the (UN) Security Council,” adding that his government, which was instrumental in supporting uprisings in several Arab Spring nations, is ready to help in mediating a solution.
France launched a campaign of air bombardments on Friday to halt an advance on the Malian capital Bamako by Islamist fighters. A contingent of 750 French troops has been sent to bolster Malian forces against the rebels, who have controlled northern Mali since April. The 15-nation UN Security Council on Monday expressed its unanimous support for the French offensive.
But the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, of which Mali is a member, called on Tuesday for an “immediate” ceasefire, dubbing the offensive “premature” and urging all parties to return to negotiations. — AFP.



