Central African Republic rebels agree to talks as troops from Chad block advance (PHOTOS)
Central African Republic rebels halted their advance toward the nation's capital and agreed to talks on Wednesday.
The Seleka rebel fighters, who have captured large swathes of the country and threatened to oust President Francois Bozize, said they would not attack the capital city of Bangui, according to Reuters.
"I have asked our forces not to move their positions starting today because we want to enter talks in (Gabon's capital) Libreville for a political solution," the rebels' spokesman Eric Massi told Reuters.
Bozize's closest ally, Chadian President Idriss Deby, sent 400 troops to CAR, while another 360 soldiers were provided by Gabon, Congo Brazzaville and Cameroon, the Guardian reported. France maintains 250 troops in the country and said it would only deploy them to protect its embassy.
The article you just read is free because dedicated readers and listeners like you chose to support our nonprofit newsroom. Our team works tirelessly to ensure you hear the latest in international, human-centered reporting every weekday. But our work would not be possible without you. We need your help.
Make a gift today to help us reach our $25,000 goal and keep The World going strong. Every gift will get us one step closer.