Cease-fire agreement promises hope to war torn Mali

A peace deal has been signed in Mali, potentially bringing an end to a war which has devastated the west African nation for years.

ALGIERS, ALGERIA (Catholic Online) - A representative of the Azawad independence movement, Bilal Ag Cherif, met with a representative from the Secretary General of the United Nations, Mongi Hamdi, and an Algerian mediator and signed the deal on February 19, 2015. This agreement has potentially ended a war in northern Mali that began in 2012, but the potential for a renewal of hostilities is an ever present danger.

Join Pope Francis in a day of prayer for persecuted Christians in the Middle East and around the world.

"We already have this bad experience to sign peace agreements without (them) being respected since hostilities have always recommenced," said one of the negotiators involved with the peace deal. "I hope this one will be taken into account by all the belligerents who must work for the stability of the region."

Despite uncertainty in the African nation, the signing of the documents is a satisfactory result, the crown of this phase of the dialogue.

"It must be scrupulously respected by all parties in this conflict in order to avoid a tragic fate for a population that is still suffering martyrdom," said Mohamed Ahmadou, a local journalist.

February is a month for love and devotion.

The involved parties have promised to implement the ceasefire with the help of the U.N., as well as to protect civilians, prevent provocation and ensure law enforcement throughout the region.

It is unclear how long this peace deal will last if it is broken, only time will tell.

---

'Help Give every Student and Teacher FREE resources for a world-class Moral Catholic Education'